Mr. Spock (@SouthFLJeffH)

I have always believed people should listen to the evidence, apply logic, and reach their own conclusions. That is why this Jack Nicholson scene struck me so strongly. When his character is asked how he writes women so well, he answers: “I think of a man, and I take away reason and accountability.” It is comedy. It is deliberately provocative. And obviously I do not believe that statement applies to every man or every woman. But I would be dishonest if I said I did not think there was something revealing underneath the humor. That is also why I found the conclusion of the Lindsay Clancy trial so fascinating. After weeks of testimony and lengthy deliberations, the jury reportedly stood 11–1, with one man holding out. I am not saying that his being a man automatically explains his position. I cannot know what was happening in that jury room, and neither can anyone who was not there. What I am saying is that I found the situation thought provoking, especially after listening to the arguments surrounding mental illness, responsibility, accountability, and the deaths of three children. For me, mental illness can be enormously important in understanding why something happened. But understanding an explanation and deciding legal responsibility are not necessarily the same thing. That distinction matters to me. When I watched this Nicholson clip again, I immediately thought about the Clancy case and that lone holdout juror. Maybe some people will think the comparison is ridiculous. Others may see exactly what I see. I am not asking anyone to adopt my conclusion. Watch Nicholson’s answer. Look carefully at the Clancy case. Consider the evidence, reason, emotion, and accountability. Then make your own logical conclusion. I already know mine. 🇺🇸🖖