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In a statement Dobson announced he supported 'Mel Gibson and his film, The Passion of the Christ, saying Gibson's anti-Semitic remarks had nothing to do with 'one of the finest films of this era.' He explained further that 'we certainly do not condone that racially insensitive outburst,' but added, 'Mel has apologized profusely for the incident and there the matter should rest.' On the movie, 'Our endorsement of it stands as originally stated. We did not believe it was anti-Semitic in 2004, and our views have not changed,' Dobson said.

James Dobson#10

ControversyCriticismFilmFilmmakingReligion

About this quote

What does it mean?
Dobson supports the film despite Gibson's anti-Semitic remarks, viewing them as separate from the film's quality.
In plain terms
He likes the movie but criticizes Gibson's comments.
What can you take from it?
Separate art from the artist's personal controversies.

Where it applies

  • film reviews
  • celebrity scandals
  • religious endorsements

Putting it to work

  • evaluate media on merit
  • condone offensive behavior

Questions to consider

  • Should an artist's views affect their work's reception?
  • When is apology enough?

Another view

Ignoring remarks might imply tacit acceptance.

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  3. '[T]he boy's father has to do his part. He needs to mirror and affirm his son's maleness. He can play rough-and-tumble games with his son, in ways that are dec…

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