I Wish It Was An SNL Skit

I do not watch much television, but recently I had an unfortunate encounter with the "Justice Coin" advertisement.

You can watch the one minute clip here: justicecoin.com

After I looked it up on the internet, and reconfirmed that this in fact is not a joke but a real "venture," I hardly knew how to respond. Since the events of 9/11 did not personally affect me or any of my family members, I often hesitate to voice much of an opinion on anything related to the tragedy. However, I simply cannot imagine a family who did lose someone in the event who would think of this commemorative coin in a positive manner.

The manner in which the entire gimmick is presented reeks of a lack of respect, class and sensitivity. Highlighting useless facts (24K gold coating, bonus silver coin, etc.) while glamourizing some of the most tragic tendencies of our human society. That is, it appears from this commercial that terrorism and revenge are part of an exciting real life video game. Not only is that disturbing on so many levels as a philosophy, but it is also free to prey on the minds of youth. If there is one thing that we should never teach our children it would be glorifying revenge in the name of justice, while minimizing the complexities of war. (which is done enough already in recruitment advertisements). What seems much more appropriate, (at least to me) is that killing always leads to more killing. The cycle must be forcefully broken. It is not a "weak" passive stance to act peaceably. In fact, it arguably takes more self-control, leadership, honour, respect, and courage to resist revenge than the act of revenge itself.

Furthermore, most people will admit that killing Osama Bin Laden does not bring the world any closer to peace and order. The problems we are attempting to solve are so much bigger than such trivial acts of violence. It has never sat right with me that in North America we would gather to celebrate the death of another human being (this is in reference to the crowds outside the white house after Bin Laden's death). I am not asking people to mourn the loss of such a man, but I see no rational to celebrate it. There is no reason to rejoice in revenge.

What is usually the case in similar promotions to the "Justice Coin," is that somebody saw the glowing opportunity to make a quick buck. In the general sense of our current economic system there is absolutely nothing wrong with that, and we may even cheer for free choice/enterprise. I will not go into any depth arguing the pros and cons of this idea because that has nothing to do with the point I am trying to make. However, I will simply say that this "Justice Coin" certainly does not line up with my notion of ethical business (and here is to hoping it is not a success.)

If all of the aforementioned things don't make you sick enough, you will notice that on the website they added the tactlessness of Christmas lights around the border. . . as they self proclaim to be one of the best holiday gifts. What a way to celebrate the birth of Jesus!

Please do not read this as an anti-American accusation. That is by no means my intention. If the same coin was to be released in Canada my feelings would be the exact same.