The Experts, Oct. 12

Erin Brushnell

I once heard someone say that you wouldn’t listen seriously to an analysis of, say, quantum physics, from someone who isn’t a qualified scientist. The same is true for any other profession – yet this simple logic rarely applies when it comes to social issues. We favor the privileged groups’ less-informed opinions. It’s often wiser and more productive to give the podium to marginalized people who have first-hand experience with the problems being discussed.