A (not at all comprehensive) list of things that I have seen cited in an attempt to explain away/silence the criticism of actions taken by Vax’ildan that are harmful or have the potential to be harmful to others:
– “He didn’t mean any harm.”
– “It’s in-character.”
– “He’s depressed.”
– “He’s in love.”
– “He says he’s in love.”
– “He has a tragic backstory.”
– “Justice.”
– “Holy vengeance.”
– “They were asking for it.”
– “They deserved it.”
– “She’s his sister, that gives him the right.”
– “He means well.”
– “He thought he was doing the right thing.”
– “He trusts them.”
– “He loves them. That makes it okay.”And the list of things that truly justify harmful or potentially harmful behavior:
– Not that.
#stop arguing intent when the criticism is of the action#you’re derailing and it’s not cool#when someone says ‘you hurt me’ you don’t get to decide ‘no I didn’t’