Breathe
By Rita Alicia Rodríguez
When freedom of expression and opinion is a light criticism that exhibits and does not contribute.
How many times after getting into trouble for not reserving our impulsive comments, we have remembered the iconic sayings of grandmothers: "if you have nothing good to say, better not say anything" or "everyone knows where the shoe pinches". On more than one occasion we have identified that it is tempting to judge the role of those who have a "privileged position" and that others aspire to.
In the daily spaces of coexistence, there is a constant in those who rely on the narrative of "that's just the way I am, I'm very frontal" and go through life without any filter or consideration for others. At the same time, the digital environment brings with it the possibility of anonymity, which is a comfortable option for those who make judgments and opinions that, for the most part, are unfounded.
In the media atmosphere of social networks, giving an opinion without thinking twice can generate viral chaos and employment repercussions. Suffice it to mention the examples of the renowned Mexican actor Eugenio Derbez and the influencer and actor, also Mexican, Ricardo Peralta. For the former, issuing a thoughtless and reckless opinion about the work of American actress and singer Selena Gomez, caused him to lose 3 million followers in just one weekend. Ricardo Peralta, on the other hand, has had to face a decline in his career and assume the consequences of his unfounded and unconscionable comments after having participated in the most watched reality show in Mexico in 2024.
And so, where are the limits and when does criticism become irresponsible?
To begin with, this reminds us that December 10 is Human Rights Day. On this day the most important thing is to be clear about the principles that guarantee a harmonious coexistence and what are the implicit agenda items to develop without affecting the integrity of others and, of course, the individual. Therefore, it is a reciprocal understanding, I respect others, but I also identify the limits to myself.
Freedom of expression and opinion is a fundamental right that allows us to express ideas, beliefs and opinions. In contrast, irresponsible criticism lacks fundamentals, caution and little or no empathy for the damage it may cause. For this reason, light criticism lacks solid arguments and evidence; it is superficial and does not add up due to its lack of analysis and commitment.
In all this, of course, constructive and well-argued criticism is valuable, indeed, we should promote it. However, without credentials, without information, without bases and from the impulse or the desire to make someone uncomfortable or show off, it will always be a bad idea.
It is easy to give opinions about the work and performance of others, to judge in a deliberate manner. As an example of this, Mexican sportsmen who have given results and who have had a successful position. We have the case of the soccer player Hugo Sanchez, in his peak sporting moment, many issues were not in the conversation, such as the xenophobia that he experienced in Europe and that, to this day, he is still criticized and not valued at the level of his professional achievement. And what can we say about the media pressure towards Checo Perez, after an ascending and fruitful career, as soon as the ups and downs appeared, the judgments began without caution.
In other approaches, according to data from the Global Consumer Survey macro survey conducted by Statista in 2022, in Mexico more than half of the interviewees stated that reviews play an important role in influencing purchasing decisions, therefore, it is vital to take care of the filter of fake reviews. In fact, unfounded criticisms of a brand have a significant impact that can trigger a loss of reputation, a decrease in sales and corporate revenue.
Giving support and really contributing when you give your perspective to others, goes beyond whether we are family, partner, friends, colleagues, compatriots or consumers. If a point of view is shared, it is worth taking care of the forms (again remember grandmothers), not exposing, highlighting the positive aspects and proposing alternatives in such a case for someone to improve.
Let us encourage empathetic dialogue, let us be responsible for our words and let us not provide a forum to fuel hatred or violence. Sowing discord in an irresponsible, malicious or unfair way leads to harmful results where no one wins and everyone loses.
And let's remember... A good judge begins at home.
The opinions expressed are the responsibility of the authors and are absolutely independent of the position and editorial line of the company. Opinion 51.
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