Peter Hitchens: 'The public, unlike our governing elite, are not obsessed by race and sex. They are rightly interested only in the contents of the person's character.'

The public, unlike our governing elite, are not obsessed by race and sex. They are rightly interested only in the contents of the person's character.

In this thought-provoking quote by Peter Hitchens, he suggests that the general public, in contrast to the governing elite, does not harbor an obsession with race and sex. Instead, the quote emphasizes the significance of focusing on the contents of a person's character rather than superficial aspects such as their ethnicity or gender. This idea highlights a fundamental principle: that true judgment and understanding of an individual should be based on their intrinsic qualities, morals, and values, rather than external factors beyond their control.In a society where discussions surrounding race and sex are often prevalent, Hitchens' assertion offers a refreshing perspective. It prompts us to consider the extent to which we tend to attach undue importance to these superficial characteristics when forming our opinions of others. By advocating for a shift in focus towards a person's character, Hitchens challenges us to reevaluate our own biases and prejudices, and to recognize the importance of viewing individuals as multifaceted beings rather than mere representations of their race or gender.However, as we explore this quote further, we can introduce an unexpected philosophical concept that delves even deeper into the idea of character assessment. This concept revolves around the notion of essentialism, the belief that every individual possesses an underlying essence or true nature. By juxtaposing essentialism with Hitchens' assertion, we can explore the complexities of evaluating character and delve into the intricacies of defining a person beyond their external attributes.While Hitchens suggests that the public is interested in examining the contents of an individual's character, the concept of essentialism raises questions about whether character itself is a fixed and unchangeable essence or a flexible construct that evolves over time. By introducing this philosophical concept, we can expand the discussion and prompt readers to consider the merits of both perspectives.On one hand, essentialism may argue that a person's character is innate, deeply ingrained within them from birth or influenced by their genetic makeup. This perspective suggests that we can discern an individual's true character based on these inherent qualities, which are not heavily influenced by race or sex. However, critics may question whether the complexity of human nature can be reduced to a single essential essence, thus challenging the very premise of essentialism.On the other hand, those who value the fluidity of character might argue that it is shaped by a multitude of factors such as upbringing, experiences, and personal growth. From this standpoint, character is not fixed but constantly evolving, influenced by external circumstances and individual choices. In this regard, an individual's character becomes less dependent on superficial aspects such as race or sex and more reflective of their personal development and life experiences.While Hitchens' quote emphasizes focusing on the contents of a person's character, the introduction of essentialism adds layers of complexity to this perspective. It encourages us to critically examine the idea of character assessment and explore the extent to which we can truly comprehend the depth and intricacies of an individual's being.Ultimately, by combining Hitchens' assertion with the philosophical concept of essentialism, we are prompted to contemplate the nuanced nature of character evaluation. We must recognize that while external attributes like race and sex may initially shape our perceptions, a person's character should be assessed with far greater depth and consideration, encompassing their beliefs, actions, and personal growth. By striving to understand individuals in this holistic manner, we can actively work towards reshaping our own biases and fostering a more inclusive society where the contents of one's character truly become the primary focus.