Bad reputation

Centuries ago, the justice system relied on character and reputation before forensic evidence was ever invented, chasing rumors to catch a criminal. Today, in theory, we try to have some evidence to reach a conclusion that is closer to the truth of what happened. But reputation still matters. It shows up in job interviews and background checks for an apartment. And maybe, the problem isn’t the blemishes on every ones reputation (we all have them), but perhaps we shouldn’t put so much stock in our assessment in people. People prove us wrong all the time. They defy the odds, challenge the status quo, and raise the bar. Sure, many behave like people do. But we do no favors in ignoring the potential in someone because we saw something in a resume that rubbed us the wrong way.

“I don’t give a damn about my bad reputation.” — Joan Jett