Exactly. If Damore had focused his comments purely on hiring practices, quotas, discriminatory policies etc he would still be there and almost all would've found his comments constructive.
But he didn't do that. He brought up scientifically baseless, insulting and emotionally immature rationales for an important and sensitive topic. Working around people in a professional environment requires nuance and tact. He showed none of this.
The fact that so many in IT seem to miss this point and defend him explains so much about why many men and women stay away from this field.
From what I've seen, much of the anti-memo invective is based on (a) not reading it, or (b) an extremist interpretation of what he says, or (c) outright denial of scientific facts.
It really is easier to join a lynch mob, than to say "Hmm... perhaps we want a cold, cautious examination of the facts"
But he didn't do that. He brought up scientifically baseless, insulting and emotionally immature rationales for an important and sensitive topic. Working around people in a professional environment requires nuance and tact. He showed none of this.
The fact that so many in IT seem to miss this point and defend him explains so much about why many men and women stay away from this field.