For the record, I knew Kathy for several years, initially through a local Less Wrong community, and considered her a friend for some time. I endorse Scott’s assessment, but I’ll emphasise that I think she believed the accusations she made.
Relevant to this post: Many people tried to help Kathy, from 3 groups that I’m aware of. People gave a lot of time and energy. Speaking for myself and what I observed in our local community, I believe we prioritised helping her over protecting our community and over our own wellbeing.
In the end things went poorly on all three, for the community, other individuals and especially for Kathy. But it wasn’t for lack of caring.
If something similar happened today, we would have much more support, through the EA community health team. (I was more involved in LW at the time, and wasn’t aware of support available through EA. The team might not have existed yet in a formal capacity.)
I don’t take Kathy’s letter at face value. However I’m glad to see Julia’s comment confirming that Kathy’s accusations were investigated (I would expect no less) and in one case acted upon.
As for the analytical vs emotional – it’s hard to express my emotions around this in written words. And especially hard to do so without saying more than I think is appropriate.
(This is the first public comment I’ve made on this subject. I only make it because it’s understandably still an issue of concern, and few people have much context for it.)
For the record, I knew Kathy for several years, initially through a local Less Wrong community, and considered her a friend for some time. I endorse Scott’s assessment, but I’ll emphasise that I think she believed the accusations she made.
Relevant to this post: Many people tried to help Kathy, from 3 groups that I’m aware of. People gave a lot of time and energy. Speaking for myself and what I observed in our local community, I believe we prioritised helping her over protecting our community and over our own wellbeing.
In the end things went poorly on all three, for the community, other individuals and especially for Kathy. But it wasn’t for lack of caring.
If something similar happened today, we would have much more support, through the EA community health team. (I was more involved in LW at the time, and wasn’t aware of support available through EA. The team might not have existed yet in a formal capacity.)
I don’t take Kathy’s letter at face value. However I’m glad to see Julia’s comment confirming that Kathy’s accusations were investigated (I would expect no less) and in one case acted upon.
As for the analytical vs emotional – it’s hard to express my emotions around this in written words. And especially hard to do so without saying more than I think is appropriate.
(This is the first public comment I’ve made on this subject. I only make it because it’s understandably still an issue of concern, and few people have much context for it.)