The Axiom Of Respect
Individuals Demonstrate Valid Behavior
By Treating Themselves And Others Respectfully
And Respecting Only Those Who Earn It

Early last Sunday, "pop star" Chris Brown allegedly committed domestic violence against his "pop superstar girlfriend" Rihanna. ("Fast Fallout: Chris Brown Ads, Music Pulled") As in all cases of domestic violence, it is sad to think that someone could be so cruel as to physically harm a loved one. In this instance, however, the sadness is magnified: How could a successful, "clean-cut," "wholesome" 19-year-old, who "hate[s]" his stepfather for abusing his mother, beat up his beautiful, talented, and equally successful girlfriend, leaving her injured and alone in a Los Angeles park at 12:30 in the morning?

While stars are coming out to support both Rihanna and (shockingly) Brown (note to Terrence Howard and Rapper T.I.: how could you support someone who beats up his girlfriend?), this situation is a prime example of why Magna Sententia dictates that you respect only those who earn it.

To many, Chris Brown was "like the all-American guy." "He sang hit songs ('Kiss Kiss,' 'Forever'), danced circles around the competition (with moves comparable to those of Usher and Michael Jackson) and made inroads into the acting world ('The O.C.' and 'Stomp the Yard')." While these are all admirable surface attributes, they are not indicative of his character.

Perpetrators of domestic abuse should be severely punished, and if found guilty, so should Chris Brown. Many times, prosecutors find it difficult to adequately punish abusers because their victims refuse to cooperate. For this and many other reasons, it is extremely irresponsible for Terrence Howard to say, "Chris is a great guy. He'll be all right. And Rihanna knows he loves her." Because Howard cannot know that Brown didn't do this, his remarks essentially condone Brown's alleged behavior. Sorry, but love doesn't leave you in the hospital, and any woman with an ounce of self-respect knows this.

We cannot overlook detrimental behavior as a society just because someone happens to be famous. We cannot overlook detrimental behavior as individuals just because we love someone.

If you are a victim of domestic violence, please seek assistance immediately. There are many safe houses throughout our country that can help you escape your abuser. (The number for the National Domestic Violence Hotline, which is open 24 hours a day in all 50 states, is 1-800-799-SAFE[7233].) You deserve better - and so does Rihanna.

Anna and Ellie Sherise
Creators of The Magna Sententia Weblog
Authors of Magna Sententia: The Logical Cure for Our Society