This more or less started with your idea that we are not qualified to judge the actions of others, and that what others do is none of our business unless it infringes directly upon us. I think this is a rather detached way to look upon membership in a society. As to "infringement," It is not far removed from Karma's point about all actions having reactions.
When certain behaviors precipitate illness, all of of us are directly affected. Medicare costs are ultimately funded by tax dollars. Insurance payments are ultimately funded by all policyholders through increased premiums. The more that specific behaviors are linked to medical consequences, as in the case of smoking, the more society has both a right and an obligation to make judgments and express collective disapproval. Sometimes behavior goes to the very heart of our national character, such as drug use, and society not only make judgements, but takes proactive steps to prevent it.
The article in Time was written by a gay man, who deplores what he sees happening in the male gay culture, especially among young gay men. He foresees the start of another epidemic of STDs arising from the growing practice of "barebacking," unprotected rectal sex. If you feel that it is "none of your business," because it is done in private (not always) and between consenting adults ...you are entitled to your view. I would say that if such does happen, you will feel its consequences in more ways than you can imagine, like it or not. |
