I understand, of course, that many people find smoking objectionable. That is their right. I would, I assure you, be the very last to criticize the annoyed. I myself find many-- even most-- things objectionable. Being offended is the natural consequence of leaving one's home. I do not like aftershave lotion, adults who roller-skate, children who speak French, or anyone who is unduly tan. I do not, however, go around enacting legislation and putting up signs. In private I avoid such people; in public they have the run of the place. I stay at home as much as possible, and so should they. When it is necessary, however, to go out of the house, they must be prepared, as I am, to deal with the unpleasant personal habits of others. That is what 'public' means.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The quote lists personal annoyances and argues for private avoidance rather than public legislation, defining 'public' as tolerating others' habits.
- In plain terms
- Accept others' annoying habits in public; avoid them privately.
- What can you take from it?
- Practice personal tolerance, not imposed restrictions.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- When is public regulation justified?
- How do we balance personal comfort with communal harmony?
Another view
It may downplay the need for collective standards in shared environments.
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