13 December 2013, 12:09 PM IST
During the Cold War, the Russians used this as a delaying/bargaining tactic in negotiations with the US: But What About. When the Americans brought up prisoners of conscience in Siberian labour camps, the Russians would counter with 'But what about Blacks in the US?' When they protested against the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, the counter was 'But what about Vietnam?'
This was a brilliant tactic (I think there's a Wiki list, though I couldn't find it), and it ensured the key issue remained on the backburner while the 'What Abouts' were endlessly debated.
'What About' has made a comeback - on social media. If you say something on Facebook, someone will surface in a few minutes with a 'But What About'?
If you write about a nice meal you had at a friend's restaurant recently, someone will casually slip in an article about how restaurants overcharge patrons.
If it's a little serious, say your opinion against Section 377, someone will pipe up with 'But what about male rape?'
In my (casual) estimate, about 30% of those on social media walk around with suitcases of 'But What About', ever ready to barge in with these bird droppings.
While an informed debate is very good (I think that's what most of us are here for), these What Abouters try their damnedest to kill it as quickly as possible.
Irritating, isn't it?
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