Maggie's Farm

I can see the point the professor is trying to make: the generation of which he speaks has been simultaneously been told "you are special and precious just for being you; here's your participation medal" and been bubble-wrapped so no harm can come to such precious children. It's easy to blame society and - in an era when one can be criminally charged for letting one's offspring go to the park unsupervised - much criticism is warranted. But, in the end, it's up to the parents to figure out how to let their children experience failure and grow stronger.

Though, I do remember when - back in the day - eldest offspring jumped off some stuff we had in the back area and hit her head on the nearby window sill. Major lump and bruise over eye, and subsequent trip to emergency. When asked what happened, I explained that partner napping after long day coming home from vacation, I was making supper, and offsprings were doing what they had expressly been told NOT to do. To this day, I remember fondly the nurse whose comment was to the effect of, Ah, yes, I remember doing things like that.

Somehow, I don't think the reactions of the emergency room staff would be so sympathetic. It's a shame, as kids need to be allowed to dumb things and suffer the consequences.