Thank you for your careful, detailed reporting on this controversial event. It is impossible to free ourselves from our subjectivity when we witness such events, as demonstrated by the sharply differing accounts given by those who were there. The most basic forms of perception are shaped by our preconceptions, much less such highly charged and polarizing events.
For those who haven’t yet watched this video from a study of selective attention, it offers strong evidence that we see what we’re prepared to see.
Princeton has always excelled in its cohesiveness, while tolerating differences of opinion. Naturally, we live in times that test our sense of community. Let us always remember that those with whom we disagree — sometimes vehemently — have had life experiences and beliefs that make their outlook understandable.