In the Forbes article called “$2,000 A Day Fine For Obstructing Coronavirus Contact Tracing,” written by Shahar Ziv, descriptions are made toward a hunt for non-compliant citizens, potentially carrying a deadly disease. According to Ziv, these eight Rockland County evaders are selfishly putting the population in harm’s way through their reckless attempt at negligence. Next, threats of hefty fines, coarsen the individuals to come forth.
The July 7th article goes on building straw men comparisons of an individual’s rights to punch someone in the nose or yell fire in a crowded theater. Ziv questions the balance of individual rights and community obligation stating the government must mandate action and ramp up enforcement.
He encourages other leaders to follow Rockland County’s example since lives are at stake. The next straw man is to “Provide hurricane early warning” and “Prevent forest fires.” Emphasis is given that we can’t go back to work until everyone is compliant.
Throughout the article, the disobedient are labeled as imbeciles, ignorant, stupid, obstinate, and selfish. This name-calling is a tactic I see used in debates that replaces logic. When evidence is lacking, the opponent may shame his competitor in front of an audience to gain ground. A sturdy debater will see through the guise standing firm. Don’t allow these manipulation tactics to move you, because soon, the “imbeciles” will be those who reject mark.