Elf on a Shelf for a More Efficient Police State

[dragonyphoenix]

The Elf of a Shelf is preparing children to live in future police state, professor warns.

Comments

[the-emu.livejournal.com]

Elf on the Shelf is so utterly creepy. I can't imagine why anyone would want one of those dead-eyed freaks in their house.

Never mind the whole meaning behind them - I'd never thought as far as the panopticon, but isn't it bad enough to reinforce for kids the notion that they should behave because they're being spied on, instead of helping them build their own ethical framework?

On the other hand, the store I work in sells them, and I get a great deal of satisfaction out of giving the Eyeball of Judgement to people who specify that they want a white male one.

8^-

[dragonyphoenix.livejournal.com]

I never knew this much about them until today. I'd seen postings but didn't have any idea on the whole surveillance meme. And, yes, I think basing good behavior on an ethical framework is much more sensible.

I get a great deal of satisfaction out of giving the Eyeball of Judgement to people who specify that they want a white male one. That's too delightful.

[snogged.livejournal.com]

I agree that Elf on the Shelf is creepy and the message it sends is also creepy.

I know my niece and nephew have one and they truly seem to love Elfie, even if they can't touch him. I'm glad to see them happy, but I worry about the cost.

[dragonyphoenix.livejournal.com]

I'd seen mention of the elf in posts but had no idea of the "watching to make sure you're good" meme until today. Brrrrr!

I've read of kids who are freaked out by the whole thing that parents have modified the rules. I'm glad your relatives aren't upset by it. Frankly I think the elf just looks creepy even without knowing the background.

[velvetwhip.livejournal.com]

I happen to agree. We live in a society where we have already surrendered far too many of our basic rights. Normalizing surveillance and making it a "game"? It can lead only to a very scary place.


Gabrielle

[dragonyphoenix.livejournal.com]

My Dad recently freaked out when he tried to book an airplane ticket and they wanted his birth date. I think I'll not be sharing this elf info with him.