Sometimes scientists have great hypotheses and they get nobel peace prizes. More often than not, though, scientists have terrible hypotheses and crash and burn.
My hypotheses this morning were two-fold:
People are finally ready for a data-driven, evidence based scientific series on the interactions between police and community members.
The perfect timing would be when mass media is covering a case that sparked a national movement.
Results:
First, get creamed on media from both “sides”. An interesting observation was that I received messages from people assuming I had too much empathy for police. And, at the same time, received messages that I had too much empathy for marginalized communities. From the same post. Second, receive multiple threats to my professional and personal life.
Conclusions:
The reaction highlighted that the need is still there.
Just not yet. I will table this series until later, when stakes and emotions aren’t so high.
Threats to my life are just not worth it.
Time for a glass of wine.
Just know that we are working on this behind the scenes and we are finding some pretty exciting solutions. Solutions endorsed by marginalized communities and police alike. Yes, it’s possible.
Love, YLE
Great (and terrible) hypotheses
I am so sorry. Thank you for doing what you do and helping us to move forward with data, common sense, and compassion. ❤️
I am so sorry that you received death threats and I am sorry that is becoming the more common response when people don't like what you say. How did we get to this? Thank you for your bravery and you are right it is not worth threats on your life.