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🇰🇷 South Korea /Culture & Society

Why even good intentions require 'consent': A look at a new children's book

From Hankyoreh · (6m ago) Korean Positive tone

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • A children's book, "It's Okay to Choose for Yourself," explores the importance of consent in everyday interactions.
  • The book uses relatable scenarios to explain how seeking and respecting consent is crucial for healthy relationships and social harmony.
  • It emphasizes that consent is a fundamental aspect of respecting others, especially vulnerable groups, and provides guidance on how to ask for it appropriately.

In a society often preoccupied with grand political and economic narratives, it's refreshing to see a children's book, "It's Okay to Choose for Yourself," bring the profound concept of consent into sharp focus. Penned by a seasoned children's book editor, this work, though aimed at young readers, offers invaluable lessons for all ages about the power of agreement in shaping our interactions and relationships.

You must not forget that even if an action starts with a good heart, it can cause inconvenience if you do not consider the other person's situation and assume they will like it.

— AuthorThis quote explains the core message of the book: good intentions are not enough; seeking consent is essential to avoid causing unintended discomfort.

The book masterfully illustrates how consent is not merely a legal or formalistic requirement but the very 'golden key' to navigating our daily lives. Through simple yet poignant examples, like sharing food with a friend who might not appreciate the gesture, it highlights the potential for even well-intentioned actions to cause discomfort if consent isn't sought. This gentle approach underscores a vital message: understanding and respecting the other person's boundaries is paramount, regardless of our own good intentions.

The reason why we cannot condone attacks on the vulnerable or exclusionary practices is that they run counter to the values that our society has agreed upon and cultivated.

— AuthorThis quote connects the concept of consent to broader social justice issues, arguing that protecting vulnerable groups is a matter of societal agreement.

Furthermore, the book extends its exploration of consent to broader social issues, including the treatment of vulnerable populations. It argues that considerations like 'no-kids zones' or opposition to disability rights protests are fundamentally at odds with the social consensus we build together. By framing respect for the marginalized as a matter of shared agreement, the book powerfully refutes the notion that 'individual freedom' can be used to justify exclusion or harm.

Can you do this for me?

— AuthorThis is presented as an example of a respectful way to ask for something, contrasting with more demanding or coercive approaches.

Crucially, "It's Okay to Choose for Yourself" doesn't just advocate for seeking consent; it teaches *how* to do so effectively. It cautions against coercive questioning and instead promotes open-ended inquiries like, "Can you do this for me?" or "What do you think?" This practical guidance empowers readers to foster genuine communication and mutual respect, building a foundation for healthier relationships and a more considerate society. It's a timely reminder that true consideration begins with asking, and truly listening.

What do you think?

— AuthorThis is another example of a question that respects the other person's autonomy and invites their genuine opinion.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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