Well, I will compare this situation to the Amish communities I have visited many, many times in America. The Amish are probably an even rarer and misunderstood sect than the Orthodox Jews. They are living in rural, secluded communities, not big cities like Jerusalem. Even though their religion prohibits photographs, most of them do not mind if you take a photo from a distance or behind them. They understand people are curious about their way of life, and many times I have stopped people on the street to ask them questions about Amish life. I've never once had an Amish person scream at me or behave in a rude manner. They understand my curiosity is genuine, and that I'm not viewing them as some type of freak show. Of course, it is impossible to understand someone's intentions virtually, but I don't like that this guy jumped to conclusions which had no logical basis. I don't see how this image gives the impression I'm portraying Orthodox Jews as "animals in the zoo." Maybe this is how he feels himself? But I understand your point about human nature - complex and often very defensive.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
timeasmymeasure
no subject
Date: 2014-07-02 05:16 pm (UTC)