I find the events in Paris, France disturbing. As a psychotherapist, I see the behavior frequently in therapy sessions.
One person says or does something that a second person finds disrespectful and hurtful. The second person explains why the behavior is hurtful and asks the first person to stop.
The first person thinks that the second person's thoughts and feelings are ridiculous and the other should not feel that way. The first person continues the hurtful behavior.
In the school, we call this behavior bullying. In the work place, it is harassment. In the family, it is emotional abuse. In journalism, it is freedom of the press. Wherever the behavior occurs, it is devaluing and demeaning.
Demeaning and insulting people starts and continues conflict. It does not lead to meaningful discussion to resolve conflicts.
Sharon Veach, Baltimore