An analysis discussing the undertones of the latest movie. A critique of public figures. Accusing “comedy” as thinly veiled bigotry. Any thought-provoking discussion?
“It’s not that deep.”
This is a phrase that infuriates and baffles me on a daily basis. It is a convenient and dismissive string of words that is able to shut down important and sometimes necessary discussion without any thought given to the matter at hand. Most importantly, it reveals a generational unwillingness to dissect and look beyond surface-level meaning.
The way we act and speak daily is deeply ingrained into our behavior. Oftentimes, insensitivity is not born out of malice, but instead out of habit. When people use a specific word or make assumptions that you have your entire life without issue, it is difficult to see the problem in these behaviors.
But the habit of behavior does not excuse refusing change. When called out, people often become defensive or turn a blind eye rather than accept the idea that one’s behavior may be harmful and require change.
Hence, the defense: it’s not that deep.
After all, why think critically when ignorance is easier?
The mindset of ignorance has also become an easy get-out-of-jail card for public figures to avoid accountability.
Take American Eagle’s controversial denim ad featuring Sydney Sweeney. Many argue that the ad’s use of the word “jeans” as “genes” is a political dog whistle covertly supporting white supremacy and eugenics.
The arguments of Sweeney’s defenders and her official response (more than four months later) showed the lazy, ignorant mentality in full effect. The official response lacked any accountability, only that she didn’t mean to cause any backlash while Sweeney’s defenders literally repeated “it’s not that deep” in droves.
Regardless of the ad’s intention, the response is telling. Even if Sweeney genuinely means no harm (which I doubt), the correct response in a situation where your actions have unintentionally harmed others or have been so grossly misunderstood is to, at the very least, acknowledge and apologize.
Instead, her response was radio silence for months, and then the public apology equivalent of “whoopsies.”
Calling out others for their behavior, and taking action when we are called out is how we improve ourselves and ensure people surrounding us are also being better. The consequences of every action holds more meaning than we often realize, and that is why being aware of the implications of all of our actions is of utmost importance. Look at things critically, understand the context of people’s actions and be nuanced in your worldview.
I promise, it is that deep.
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