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If someone creates something that is utterly genius, yet we find out that they have done awful things...

Does it cancel out the genius part?
As an example: I'm a huge fan of L. Frank Baum. I think that he was truly a literary genius and the majority of authors could only hope to reach his level one day, me included!
L. Frank Baum also wrote racist editorials in a South Dakota newspaper, calling for the extermination of Native Americans. Some believe those editorials sparked the Wounded Knee massacre of 1890.
I notice a lot of people bring this up when I mention that I am a fan of his, yet I'm not sure what that has to do with his writing capabilities and the land of Oz that he created.
So what do you think?
Do awful acts cancel out the good ones?
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LivAbit · 46-50, M
I think it's a personal decision for everyone. Some of the most brilliant, talented people are also the most screwed up. Does using the N word mean Mark Twain wasn't brilliant? Not to me. Baum? I may think he's over the line. We all deal other it on a smaller scale everyday. I Think Meryl Streep and is a pompous ass, but to say she isn't a great actress is a lie. I like her movies. Cool question.👍