Curious Christian

Does victimhood free one from moral responsibility? If we consider someone oppressed, are we morally obliged to overlook ANYTHING they do to their oppressors? Do boundaries no longer apply?

While the conflict in Palestine is the one getting attention presently, my question extends to all conflict situations. Because I think it’s important to set up principals that extend beyond tribal loyalties. Standards that apply to all humanity, no exceptions.

It’s crucial to acknowledge that experiencing oppression can be profoundly challenging, leaving lasting emotional and psychological scars. Yet, the notion of victimhood as a carte blanche for any following actions is a complex and contentious one. While empathy and understanding are essential, it’s equally important to recognize the nuances involved in addressing behaviour linked to victimhood.

Being a victim doesn’t absolve one of the responsibility to make ethical choices or adhere to societal norms. It’s understandable that trauma may influence an individual’s reactions, but it doesn’t negate the need for accountability. Society must strike a delicate balance between acknowledging the impact of victimization and holding individuals (and organisations) responsible for their actions.

Granting an unrestricted pass based solely on victimhood risks undermining the principles of justice and equality. Accountability is a fundamental aspect of a just society. Deviations from this principle can lead to a breakdown in social order. Striking the right balance requires fostering empathy for victims. At the same time, it is important to uphold standards that ensure the fair and ethical treatment of all individuals, including enemies.

Besides, conflicts are often complex. We may be used to stories of black hats versus white hats (or colourful characters verses colourless characters if you’re a Star Wars fan like me) but in the real world there’s often a sea of grey hats. People can be oppressed and oppressive towards others at the same time. It’s for this reason I refuse to give either Hamas or the IDF the proverbial “get out of jail free card”. When either side commits an atrocity, I will be calling it out as an atrocity.

My reason for this is the life and teaching of Jesus. He endured a situation with many parallels to the experience of the Palestinians in Palestine today. He was a marginalised member of a nation occupied by an oppressive foreign force. He had compassion for the oppressed and suffered oppression himself. Yet he refused the path of oppressing his oppressors in response. He held all people accountable for their actions, including his own followers. He extended grace and mercy to everyone, even his enemies.