A Lion, a Dentist, and an Internet Lynch Mob
I wasn’t originally going to address this issue because of dealing with the grief at losing my beloved Shepherd/Chow Lady; yesterday it was hard just making it through the day. But as I’ve continued reading all the attacks on the entire profession of dentistry because of the actions of 1 dentist, I changed my mind.
I Am not a Hunter and Hate Trophy Hunting
The last time I picked up a gun, it was in my grandparents’ back yard about 33 years ago, and it was a .22 rifle that my grandfather taught me to shoot. I have never hunted an animal and have zero interest in doing so. I do not condone trophy hunting in any way. What Dr. Palmer did is morally repugnant to me, regardless of the legality. Personally, if he loses his business over it, it won’t bother me.
But the online lynch mob has gone ENTIRELY too far. Death threats; posting his home address online; the vitriol and hate directed at him is so far beyond acceptable, it’s pathological. It’s a mob mentality that must stop. And the attacks on my profession also need to stop.
An American Dentist Hunter Shot Cecil the Lion
Seriously, if it were any other profession except dentistry, would we be seeing headlines everywhere trumpeting the guy’s profession? Ok, maybe if he were a physician or an attorney (sorry Tina Willis ), but a plumber? Garage mechanic? Masters in Social Work? Lab scientist? Would ANY of those be getting the same headlines? Duh, of course not.
So why is the entire profession of dentistry being crucified because 1 man killed 1 lion?
If you really believe that more needs to be done to save endangered wildlife, then get off your ass and do something like get involved or donate. But put the metaphorical ropes away.
And if you don’t like dentists that much, well, you don’t have to come see us. Go right ahead and do your own dentistry at home. Let me know how that works for you.
#cecilthelion #dentist