Hate

"Prejudices are what fools use for reason," remarked Voltaire, a sad truth borne out by the fact that a hate crime is committed every 14 minutes. Thoroughly covering a difficult topic with insight, sensitivity, and honesty, this excellent program makes good use of stock footage to point out how hate has scarred the human race throughout history. As the brutal images show, man's capacity for inhumanity is virtually endless, but just as important (and frightening) are the effects of desensitization--an indifference to shocking violence that ultimately becomes a danger to society at large. Emphasizing individual responsibility, Hate reminds viewers that in addition to learning to appreciate diversity and refuse to engage in harassment of those who are different, we also cannot afford to simply be silent spectators. As Holocaust survivor Elie Weisel said, "neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim." Combining creative editing, an articulate script, a sense of balance, and a practical focus, this timely program is highly recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. (E. Gieschen)