Not really, people need to take responsibility for their actions. Part of growing up is hearing unsavory things. And people that go off on gay people do get punished, by lost endorsements, contracts, etc.
I think we're on two different wavelengths. Kids and teenagers that are bullied and harassed usually aren't responsible for the abuse. They don't invite it or want it, in the vast majority of cases. Since we're mostly talking about kids and teens being abused your point about pro athletes is moot.
I am talking about adults, but not just pro athletes. Anyone can lose their job. Anyway kids are not completely responsible for their actions, that's why they have parents. If their parents fail then that is on them.
If we're talking about a verbal or written attack (not physical of course)? Well I think if someone acts like a dipshit, they should be ostracized. Criticized, etc. But on my property, I don't see why I can't say whatever I want. How should I know that someone would take it that personal? No one should ever be censored in their own home. Parents need to pay attention to what their kids do. If I had a daughter I would be paranoid probably.
And if we were talking about people talking shit on private property your point might be relevant. Alas, we're discussing things going on in schools, on the internet, and on the streets in crandc's example. You seem to be on an anti-censorship kick and while that might be tangentially related to the topic it isn't moving us forward (fo'ward). More to your point of bullying building character, if that's what you're getting at--I'm not certain--I'm not sure that's relevant either since we're talking about Amanda Todd who is dead. I don't know if it is a criminal case but I think we can agree that there is a point where harassment can go far beyond what you called unsavory language and criticism and ventures into stalking and torture.
Are we talking about public spaces? I'm not sure about that. The internet (much of it) is private property, as are schools and some roads. Bullying teaches people essential life skills. Also hearing disgusting opinions is part of life as well. It teaches people how to socialize and get integrated with society. I think you're approaching this question from a statist perspective. I do not want to make public areas more "efficient" or create more laws to stop bullying. I want private areas that regulate bullying, or allow it to occur. Her response was not normal imo, and the man in question is a creep for wanting to see her get naked. Aside from that what is your point? If someone has mental issues I see that as their problem (if of adult age), or their parent's problem. That doesn't mean I wouldn't try to donate to Amanda Todd's family, etc., it just means people have the right to say horrible things even on the internet. I'm not sure what your point is about the internet, you don't own this website for example. If Denny allowed it I don't see why someone shouldn't be able to say the worst things about you. Now he has made this website in a way that restricts that level of bullying, and good for him. He has no obligation to do this though.
