When ‘Going Woke’ Backfires: A Lesson in Entertainment
It’s hard not to chuckle at the irony when those who ‘go woke’ find their idealistic approach to entertainment backfiring. The value of entertainment has been debated for years, with many arguing its importance in society and the need for creative freedom. Recently, a group of Netflix employees expressed their displeasure with Dave Chappelle’s latest special. Netflix’s response? If they didn’t want to deal with ‘controversial’ entertainment, they could leave. To some, this may seem like a harsh statement, but for those of us raised in earlier generations, it’s familiar territory.
Netflix’s Stance: Balancing Employee Needs and Creative Freedom
While it’s essential to work with employees and ensure their needs are met, it’s also expected that they can handle their workload and adapt to the company’s direction. Netflix has made it clear that they’re committed to showcasing diverse stories and forms of entertainment, even if it offends some of their workers. As a creator, I find myself siding with Netflix on this issue.
The suppression of any story, regardless of its controversial nature, is far more dangerous than disregarding individual feelings and beliefs. Entertainment plays a significant role in society’s growth, self-perception, and coping mechanisms. The current discord in society is evident, as entertainment is no longer seen as just that – instead, it’s viewed as harmful and divisive by those who feel attacked by the content Netflix showcases.
Comedy, Controversy, and the Importance of Perspective
Dave Chappelle’s special was a significant catalyst for Netflix’s statement, as he’s known for speaking his mind, regardless of who it offends. However, he’s not the only one – comedy often comes from a dark place, stripping power from life’s more hurtful and controversial aspects. In essence, comedy and entertainment help many people get through their day.
When a story becomes controversial, it can be challenging for those with rigid beliefs to adapt or accept differing perspectives. The Netflix employees who took offense to the content they were delivering have the right to their beliefs and feelings, but they seem to miss the point that Netflix can replace them without much effort. It’s not about disregarding people’s worth, but rather a message against cancel culture and the suppression of stories. Entertainment should showcase various perspectives, not just cater to the sensibilities of self-appointed moral arbiters.
Freedom of Speech and the Right to Walk Away
It’s unfortunate that some workers felt the need to stand against their own company, knowing the type of material Netflix would push to the public. Attempting to dictate what content is harmful or acceptable goes against the principle of freedom of speech. People have the right to be offended, but they also have the right to walk away from what offends them. They don’t have the right to suppress ideas that, on their own, are incapable of causing harm. Entertainment, whether we like it or not, doesn’t call for anyone’s harm.
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