Be kind, they say -- would that it were so simple

Be kind, they say -- would that it were so simple

You’ve probably seen them — T-shirts enjoining you to “Be Kind.” It is hardly an objectionable sentiment. But it also seems to me to indicate something worth noticing in the broader culture. These T-shirts are on the same continuum as signs at the bank or pharmacy reminding patrons to treat employees with respect. It is the kind of thing that went without saying until very recently. Such a cultural development seems worth exploring. More insidio…