I’ve heard that backing into a conflict and acting like you’re not paying attention is a good way to prevent a fight.
Franksays
Without more context, it’s impossible to tell which of the belligerents was originally in the wrong.
But it’s nice to see a community of people (who very likely did not know each other) forming to prevent further violence. A guy with some snacks who could get in the way and stay there. A lady with a plaid shawl and a calming, sensible voice. A guy with a camera to document events in case they got out of hand.
I’ve long found the “bystander effect” disturbing, and I’m glad that I’ve never been tested in such a scenario in real life. This is a great example showing that the effect is not universal. Reinforces my hunch (and hope) that most people are generally decent, most of the time.
Mano Singhamsays
It seems similar to the tactic of the Quakers to just be present as a calming influence.
left0ver1undersays
Sadly, the comments on the video have been filled with racism and other idiotic comments along the lines of “civilized whites, savage blacks”.
It seems nothing can happen anymore without someone trying to make political mileage out of it.
starskepticsays
Without more context, it’s impossible to tell which of the belligerents was originally in the wrong.
I find it fascinating that someone would feel a need to comment on placing blame when:
1)the video’s too short to assess much of anything in itself and
2)the point of posting it was simply showing how some stranger on the subway stopped a fight.
Pierce R. Butlersays
Potato chips saved the day.
If that guy had had a pack of Skittles, would anyone on the train have survived?
Ashley Mooresays
Frank,
Not every conflict has to have a “good guy” and a “bad guy”.
Simply awesome! +10 points for Snack Man!
I’ve heard that backing into a conflict and acting like you’re not paying attention is a good way to prevent a fight.
Without more context, it’s impossible to tell which of the belligerents was originally in the wrong.
But it’s nice to see a community of people (who very likely did not know each other) forming to prevent further violence. A guy with some snacks who could get in the way and stay there. A lady with a plaid shawl and a calming, sensible voice. A guy with a camera to document events in case they got out of hand.
I’ve long found the “bystander effect” disturbing, and I’m glad that I’ve never been tested in such a scenario in real life. This is a great example showing that the effect is not universal. Reinforces my hunch (and hope) that most people are generally decent, most of the time.
It seems similar to the tactic of the Quakers to just be present as a calming influence.
Sadly, the comments on the video have been filled with racism and other idiotic comments along the lines of “civilized whites, savage blacks”.
It seems nothing can happen anymore without someone trying to make political mileage out of it.
I find it fascinating that someone would feel a need to comment on placing blame when:
1)the video’s too short to assess much of anything in itself and
2)the point of posting it was simply showing how some stranger on the subway stopped a fight.
Potato chips saved the day.
If that guy had had a pack of Skittles, would anyone on the train have survived?
Frank,
Not every conflict has to have a “good guy” and a “bad guy”.