Speech Comm

[prof-cregg.livejournal.com]

301 Obedience Follow-up

Yesterday was an experiment. I hope I didn't break any of you. It was a huge thing to ask and I know a couple of you had trouble with it. But the point wasnt to put the collar on and do the exercise.

Why do you suppose I read that section of Milgram first? I was giving you the knowlwdge that it was fine to disobey. I expected more disobedience than obedience...and that's what I got.

Chip, Rory...you two took on the experiment and had fun with it. I appreciate that. However, I have to say...shame on you. Shame on you both for being willing to both put the collar on in the first place, and to shock one another. It tells me a lot about your character and your level of trust in me.

Chiana and Veronica. *looks at each of them in turn* You both did perfectly. Chiana, your reaction was what I was hoping for. I get the feeling I hit a nerve, and I'm deeply sorry...but yours was precisely the reaction that civil disobedience requires. I am so proud of you. Veronica, you too. It took a lot of courage to tell me those things. Although I would have enjoyed a bit more forceful refusal, it was fine.

Sydney...you had an excellent reason. Instincts like that are part of the human condition and I can tell you honestly, I would never want to get between you and your child...as young as you are, you already have the instincts. Bravo.

Kimberly and Piper...don't tiptoe around things. When you resist authority, do it with a spine. Do it with gusto. Do it with panache.

The rest of you...*looks at O'Neill*...thank you for indulging me.

Now...it's Friday. It's Homecoming tonight. Let's talk obedience. Who has the power? Levels of power here...you? Your date? The Administration? The DJ? Another student? Who will you obey?

*Begins to dance* Will you obey the rhythm of the night? *Stops* Oh, I'm performing tonight. Don't miss it. Obey that one if you don't obey anything else. *winks at them*

You know what? I don't really feel like doing this today. I'm going to sit up here on my desk. You ask the questions today.