Stare at smokers to stop them, Hong Kong health chief urges public

After launching a public consultation to reduce smoking in Hong Kong, Prof Lo told fellow lawmakers at a health meeting that the public had a role to play in reducing smoking and that it would be challenging for police officers to catch smokers in the act in time.

Prof Lo, who is also a medical doctor, said smoking was bad for the health of everyone and Hong Kong needed a “culture in society that people are willing to comply with the law”.

He added: “When the members of the public see people smoking in non-smoking areas, even if no law enforcement officers can show up immediately, we can stare at the smokers.”

While you may have concerns about smoking and its potential health risks, staring at smokers with the intention of making them stop is unlikely to be an effective or respectful approach. Staring at someone to try to change their behavior can come across as confrontational, judgmental, or even invasive.

If you want to address the issue of smoking with someone, it’s generally more productive to engage in respectful and open communication. Here are some alternative approaches you can consider:

1. Educate: Share information about the health risks associated with smoking in a non-judgmental and informative manner. Offer resources or materials that can help them understand the impact of their choices.
2. Express concern: Express your concern for their well-being and how their smoking habit may affect their health. Be empathetic and supportive rather than confrontational.
3. Provide assistance: Offer support if the person expresses a desire to quit smoking.

Remember, it’s important to approach the situation with empathy and respect for the individual’s autonomy. People have the right to make their own choices, even if we may disagree with them.

Staring at someone can be considered wrong or inappropriate for several reasons:

1. Invasion of privacy: Staring at someone without their consent can intrude upon their personal space and make them feel uncomfortable or violated.
2. Disrespectful behavior: Staring at someone can be interpreted as disrespectful or rude, as it disregards their autonomy and boundaries.
3. Intimidation or harassment: Prolonged or intense staring can be perceived as a form of intimidation or harassment, causing distress or fear in the person being stared at.
4. Miscommunication: Staring is an ambiguous form of communication and can easily be misinterpreted. It may not effectively convey your thoughts or concerns, leading to misunderstandings or escalating tensions.

If you find yourself in a situation where someone is doing something you dislike or find objectionable, it’s usually more productive to address the issue directly and respectfully. Even better maybe suggest that person who is smoking to take up a less harmful option like vaping.