# Derrick Thomas a hero? **URL:** \ **Category:** The BBQ Pit\ **Created:** [February 8, 2000, 7:21pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161 "2000-02-08T19:21:00Z")\ **Posts on this page:** 20\ **Page:** 4
**Author:** ![Otto](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/o/bbe5ce/32.png) [@Otto](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Otto)\ **Post date:** [February 10, 2000, 4:05pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/61 "2000-02-10T16:05:00Z")
> [@](#): > > You may say that because he was charitable doesn’t make him heroic, but if you have followed football for awhile, or even in the last few months, there has been too much negativity. Two players have been charged with murder, and this week three players were charged with criminal offenses in two seperate situations. Thomas was never in the news for negative things and it was a freak accident and sad because he seemed to be doing okay. Sorry but he is dead, don’t call his character into question now. I’m not calling his character into question. I’m calling his common sense into question, as I would with any other person who sped on an icy road and didn’t wear a seatbelt, causing the death of two people and injuring a third. I’m also calling into question the attachment of the accolade “hero” to him, and stating my belief that the word “hero” is debased when used so freely. Look at your own words again. You seem to be supporting calling him a hero because he didn’t get into trouble. Shouldn’t we expect more from a “hero” than he wasn’t arrested for murder? Shouldn’t heroism call for a higher standard than that? ---
**Author:** ![StarvinMarvin](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/s/7993a0/32.png) [@StarvinMarvin](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/StarvinMarvin)\ **Post date:** [February 10, 2000, 5:50pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/62 "2000-02-10T17:50:00Z")
Im now a Troll, for defending a friend who is passed on. I love this place. IF that makes me a fucking Troll, then call me the fucking king of trolls. Id rather be a troll than an SDMB sanctimonious asshole who believes that they have the right to judge everyone and everything, despite no oone actually giving them this right in the “real” world. * * * "When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him. " Jonathan Swift ---
**Author:** ![Kepi](https://sea3.discourse-cdn.com/straightdope/user_avatar/boards.straightdope.com/kepi/32/7251_2.png) [@Kepi](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Kepi)\ **Post date:** [February 11, 2000, 6:13am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/63 "2000-02-11T06:13:00Z")
I suspected you were a troll long before this thread began. ---
**Author:** ![Frankie](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/f/258eb7/32.png) [@Frankie](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Frankie)\ **Post date:** [February 10, 2000, 7:18pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/64 "2000-02-10T19:18:00Z")
Never hit women or children, never killed anyone or went to jail, spent a little time to meet kids, wasn’t an asshole.=Hero?? Ahh…I forgot to add good football player now the equation adds up. Where would we put those who stormed the beach at normandy? Or put thier lives on the line to protect us?? Or give Billions of dollars to charity??? Superhero?? Bigger Hero? Being a good guy + Football Does not equal hero. It equals being a good guy! And he will be missed. * * * -Frankie “Mother Mercy, can your loins bear fruit forever?/Is your fecundity a trammel or a treasure?” -Bad Religion ---
**Author:** ![StarvinMarvin](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/s/7993a0/32.png) [@StarvinMarvin](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/StarvinMarvin)\ **Post date:** [February 10, 2000, 7:56pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/65 "2000-02-10T19:56:00Z")
Screw you guys I’m going home. -Cartman You guys (Kepi included) are sad. -Me * * * "When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him. " Jonathan Swift ---
**Author:** ![Bucky](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/b/5f8ce5/32.png) [@Bucky](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Bucky)\ **Post date:** [February 10, 2000, 8:28pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/66 "2000-02-10T20:28:00Z")
Of course, we also know the dunces when the true geniusi (plural of genius) are aligned against him. Hell, it doesn’t even take genius. EVERYONE has the right to evaluate others. Sometimes we’re factually wrong, sometimes we shouldn’t, sometimes when we judge we’re being hypocritical. But, “real” world or no, we have that right. I judge a hero as someone who risks his or her life/honor/reputation doing that which they fear to do. I have seen no evidence that suggests that DT was a hero–nice guy? Sure! So is my dad; but my dad isn’t really what I would call a hero. Sad death? yes! But not tragic–no tragic flaw was involved here. Words have meaning, meaning that is not nor should not be debased simply because of common misuse. And if one is going to get personal and abusive so quickly, I have to say that I hope starvinmarvin does leave. I’m a little tired of people who start calling others pricks/nobodies/ignorant/losers/etc. as quickly as this. Bucky * * * Oh, well. We can always make more killbots. ---
**Author:** ![Dirty\_Devil](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/d/a3d4f5/32.png) [@Dirty\_Devil](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Dirty_Devil)\ **Post date:** [February 10, 2000, 8:29pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/67 "2000-02-10T20:29:00Z")
> [@](#): > > Originally posted by StarvinMarvin: > **Id rather be a troll than an who believes that they have the right to judge everyone and everything, despite no oone actually giving them this right in the “real” world.** Just a little sample of Starvin’s judgements for you all to enjoy: [http://www.straightdope.com/ubb/Forum5/HTML/000630.html](http://www.straightdope.com/ubb/Forum5/HTML/000630.html) "…but the **“fruit”** around here are living high on the hog and its getting better for them everyday…” (in reference to homosexuals) “GO ! shoo shoo, go back in! (holding closet door open) See Im polite I hold the door open for em” (in reference to homosexuals. I won’t even comment on this one) “Seems that maybe the answer to the insensitivity and dislike and feelings of ill will towards homosexuals might stem from behavior like that.” (!?!?! see excerpts above) _Then there are some random insults:_ “You are a shameless asshole.” (in reference to Esprix) “…on paper you all seem so wise, in application I see what dipshits I deal with here.” (in reference to everyone) [http://www.straightdope.com/ubb/Forum7/HTML/001217.html](http://www.straightdope.com/ubb/Forum7/HTML/001217.html) “Second, my family arrived here in 1940, and rather than sit on their asses and collect welfare, or bemoan that had they not left they would have been slaves, or better yet been victims of ANOTHER genocide that everyone has forgotten, they worked.” (here he is using his “judgement” to imply that blacks/immigrants as a whole are sitting on their asses and collecting welfare) “With as many GENERATIONS living on government subsistence, giving quotas (until recently) in hiring and education, and special programs, I think (we) have all paid enough as it is.” (again, he’s implying that blacks/immigrants as a whole are pampered by the government) “To contort facts and proven history with speculation on your part, doesnt make the NEW simulated ideology fact.” (read the whole thread to fully enjoy this fantastic bit of irony) “Im taking a leave of absence from the board, until people calm down, and stop trying to hurt or dirty the reputations of others.” (great tatic. What else needs to be said about this one?) _Now another random insult:_ “Elmer J Fudd Millionare- who failed to use a penny for educating himself” [http://www.straightdope.com/ubb/Forum5/HTML/000650-2.html](http://www.straightdope.com/ubb/Forum5/HTML/000650-2.html) And just one more for fun: “You guys (Kepi included) are sad.” Well, congratulations, Starvin. You’ve become both a troll **and** an SDMB sanctimonious asshole. Way to go! I see that you’re gonna’ be a big hit around these parts. ---
**Author:** ![StarvinMarvin](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/s/7993a0/32.png) [@StarvinMarvin](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/StarvinMarvin)\ **Post date:** [February 10, 2000, 8:50pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/68 "2000-02-10T20:50:00Z")
(bowing and taking your sarcasm as true enjoyment) To be a member of any clubs that would have such assholes as members, would align me with you. Thus I PLAN to be the one who SAYS WHAT HE THINKS, not SAYS WHAT OTHERS WANT TO HEAR OR THINK IS FUNNY. I am my own man, and think for myself. Can you say as much or will you quote someone else yet again? Make your own points and say what YOU have to say, I might value it more, might. 😃 * * * "When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him. " Jonathan Swift ---
**Author:** ![StarvinMarvin](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/s/7993a0/32.png) [@StarvinMarvin](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/StarvinMarvin)\ **Post date:** [February 10, 2000, 8:53pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/69 "2000-02-10T20:53:00Z")
Might I add, quotations out of context, dont constitute evidence against me. They just show that you must “create” the illusion of my being unacceptable. You might wanna take a look at the threads again my friend (choking through sarcasm), you will see that few if any dont agree with me on the topic and subjects in question. It almosts seems that to purposely misquote (take out of context) me for your benefit should be a larger crime than any you allege I have committed. 🙂 * * * "When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him. " Jonathan Swift ---
**Author:** ![jab1](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/j/ee7513/32.png) [@jab1](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/jab1)\ **Post date:** [February 10, 2000, 10:58pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/70 "2000-02-10T22:58:00Z")
**SM** , I just read the “homophobic bigots” thread **in its entirety** and you most definitely are one of them. Unlike insecure straights like you, I don’t live in fear that the gays are taking over. I also know something you don’t: Homosexuals don’t tend to be child molesters any more than heterosexuals do. You know where you said it: On Page Three of that other thread. I guess if a majority of child molesters are straight, it’s death to all straights, huh? I’d tell you to go to hell, but you’re already in the hell of your own ignorance and stupidity and hatred. Have a nice day! * * * \>\< DARWIN \> \_\_ **L\_\_\_L** ---
**Author:** ![StarvinMarvin](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/s/7993a0/32.png) [@StarvinMarvin](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/StarvinMarvin)\ **Post date:** [February 10, 2000, 11:20pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/71 "2000-02-10T23:20:00Z")
I said what? Where?? That doesnt sound like me, I make gernalizations every so often, but on points that I feel strongly about. So umm?? Dig up the proof, and if you misquote me, or bust me for a “me too”, you owe me a public apology. If I in fact said that, then I will do the same??!?! ?? * * * "When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him. " Jonathan Swift ---
**Author:** ![StarvinMarvin](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/s/7993a0/32.png) [@StarvinMarvin](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/StarvinMarvin)\ **Post date:** [February 10, 2000, 11:24pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/72 "2000-02-10T23:24:00Z")
Oh I think I found the comment you CONTORTED to use against me > [@](#): > > Dim only describes the lighting in your home whenever males are in your presence. And to call me pink? I am not one of the orifices you wish to indulge in nor am I the shade of the youth you lust over. I see how that say “all” , dont you? IS ESPRIX and OTTO all homosexuals then? are they THE gays? No one else but them? Big job to be the representatives of ALL gays for two such small boys. Get a life, dont lie. * * * "When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him. " Jonathan Swift ---
**Author:** ![jab1](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/j/ee7513/32.png) [@jab1](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/jab1)\ **Post date:** [February 11, 2000, 12:33am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/73 "2000-02-11T00:33:00Z")
I replied on the “homophobic bigots” thread, because you most definitely are one. I do have a life and it’s devoted to making twerps like you uncomfortable. As long as you hold those bigoted, ignorant, hateful beliefs, you do not deserve happiness. “Afflict the comfortable and comfort the afflicted” --H. L. Mencken. Have a nice day! * * * \>\< DARWIN \> \_\_ **L\_\_\_L** ---
**Author:** ![StarvinMarvin](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/s/7993a0/32.png) [@StarvinMarvin](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/StarvinMarvin)\ **Post date:** [February 11, 2000, 12:40am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/74 "2000-02-11T00:40:00Z")
Well then you have failed, a common theme for you. I am as comfortable as ever. I responded to you, a while ago, and moved on. Might I say, to real adversaries. If I were a bigot, and you called me a bigot, wouldnt that make you a bigot too? Seems that If I have a personal dislike, I need no reason to justify it other than my own choice. Liking a certain flavor of ice cream doesnt make a person a bigot, as nor does choosing who you like or not. Im just saying I like my vanilla, and you go eat your Sorbet. So dont go pushing your fruity ice on me. Dont cry that you are discriminated against because 31 flavors refuses to sell and cater to your small relatively non profittable group. There are stores that sell what you want, go there. Dont try to make everyone have to do it YOUR way. SO I dont like homos, I have my feelings, my reasons, and thats all I need. Might I add also that this doesnt belong in this thread, but that you are attempting to take your argument to every thread. Not cool. You want it YOUR way, go to Burger King, cause they are about the only ones who want to hear from folks like that anyway. * * * "When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him. " Jonathan Swift ---
**Author:** ![Edlyn](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/e/8797f3/32.png) [@Edlyn](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Edlyn)\ **Post date:** [February 11, 2000, 3:08am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/75 "2000-02-11T03:08:00Z")
> [@](#): > > Originally posted by yosemitebabe: > \*\*In retrospect, Edlyn, I wanted to add this: I was not ragging on your post directly there - I can tell you are very dismayed by the bad driving habits of these people also. > > I just think there little excuse for such oblivious driving. Arggh.\*\* I understand. Thanks. It’s perhaps an example of mob mentality. But as far as the seat belt issue, that is an individual’s decision. I always wear mine and so do my passengers at my request. It’s my car, so it’s my rules or no ride. I also respect the right of another to make their own decision and take their own risk in _their_ vehicle. I am hesitant to get into the hero discussion because it is really a non-issue. Everyone has different values, so who they chose as a hero will reflect that. Who am I or anyone else to dictate to another who is a hero or not? ## FWIW You can stand tall without standing on someone. You can be a victor without having victims. -Harriet Woods- ---
**Author:** ![TripleAnt](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/t/e19adc/32.png) [@TripleAnt](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/TripleAnt)\ **Post date:** [February 11, 2000, 3:14am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/76 "2000-02-11T03:14:00Z")
Okay, I am going to get back to the original topic. Not bash others here. Okay, in many definitions he was not a hero. He was a damn nice guy. But many of you know that on TV and in the papers, there are references to “sports heros”. Okay there are people out there who call him a hero. Did I ever say he was a hero? Not in a sense, but I did say that when there was a lot of negativity in the league, he wasn’t a part of it. You guys want to call his character into question because he made a fatal error? That’s not right. * * * “The idea of a walk-in closet sounds frightening. If I’m ever sittin’ at home and a closet walks in, I’m gettin’ outta there.” ~George Carlin ---
**Author:** ![Otto](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/o/bbe5ce/32.png) [@Otto](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Otto)\ **Post date:** [February 11, 2000, 3:24am UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/77 "2000-02-11T03:24:00Z")
> [@](#): > > You guys want to call his character into question because he made a fatal error? That’s not right. Can you clue us in on how many times you’re gonna claim that anyone’s calling his **character** into question, when in fact no one is? If you let us know, then maybe when you’re done we’ll know you’re interested in addressing what’s actually going on in the thread. Thanks. ---
**Author:** ![Bucky](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/b/5f8ce5/32.png) [@Bucky](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/Bucky)\ **Post date:** [February 11, 2000, 3:26pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/78 "2000-02-11T15:26:00Z")
> [@](#): > > Originally posted by StarvinMarvin: > \*\* Thus I PLAN to be the one who SAYS WHAT HE THINKS, not SAYS WHAT OTHERS WANT TO HEAR OR THINK IS FUNNY. > > I am my own man, and think for myself. Can you say as much or will you quote someone else yet again? > > Make your own points and say what YOU have to say, I might value it more, might. > > 😃 > \*\* And then he follows it with a quotation from Swift. Irony 101–sign up now! Bucky (the following is a quotation from “Futurama:” * * * Oh, well. We can always make more killbots. ---
**Author:** ![UncleBeer](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/u/977dab/32.png) [@UncleBeer](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/UncleBeer)\ **Post date:** [February 11, 2000, 4:24pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/79 "2000-02-11T16:24:00Z")
Yup, I knew I was right to stay the fuck out of this one. ---
**Author:** ![SkeptiJess](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/s/ea666f/32.png) [@SkeptiJess](https://boards.straightdope.com/u/SkeptiJess)\ **Post date:** [February 11, 2000, 5:05pm UTC](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161/80 "2000-02-11T17:05:00Z")
> [@](#): > > … I have my feelings, my reasons, and thats all I need. … In the above we have a handy, dandy, condensation of StarvinMarvin’s problem with this board. His reasons are his feelings – with no reference to evidence, proof or logic. Remember the Straight Dope credo? StarvinMarvin is an example of both what we are fighting against AND why it is taking so long. \ * * * ``` Jess ``` Full of 'satiable curtiosity [Previous page](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161.md?page=3) [Next page](https://boards.straightdope.com/t/derrick-thomas-a-hero/4161.md?page=5)