In today’s world, where rules seem increasingly optional and personal accountability is often shrugged off as a relic from a bygone era, we find ourselves wondering: who’s really in the wrong? Take a recent incident, where a man decided to flaunt his electric bike on a bike trail clearly marked with signs prohibiting motorized vehicles. When confronted by a concerned citizen, or what the internet derisively labels as a “Karen,” the man scurried off, later uploading his video online to mock the woman. We should ask ourselves: why is holding someone accountable for their actions suddenly turned into a social faux pas?

Let’s consider the facts. Yes, there are rules about motorized bikes on trails, and they exist for a reason, mainly public safety. These regulations aren’t about control but to ensure everyone’s biking pastime doesn’t involve dodging high-speed machines. In this case, the so-called “Karen” is in the right. She had the decency to address the issue directly, politely pointing out the rule-breaking. Yet, instead of manning up and engaging in an adult conversation, the man chose to make fun of her online, seeking validation for his misguided defiance.

Have we really reached a point where flouting rules then running to social media for a thumbs-up is the norm? It seems bizarre that acting like a responsible adult is now worthy of online ridicule. This woman wasn’t throwing a tantrum or trying to publicly shame anyone. She just did what a responsible person should do – uphold the rules meant for everyone’s safety. Ironically, the uploader forgot the most relevant detail: he was indeed breaking the rules.

This phenomenon of labeling women who enforce rules as “Karens” reflects a broader cultural shift where rules are dismissed as suggestions and anyone calling for order is ridiculed. It wasn’t long ago that society respected those willing to speak up. Instead, now, an entire label persists to belittle those who stand for principles and public good.

Don’t we need individuals who uphold societal standards instead of those flouting them for a misplaced sense of defiance? Sure, it may seem trivial – a bike on a trail – but it’s the principle that counts. When rules face constant disregard without repercussions or acknowledgment, we curtail not only order but the values that support a civilized society. In questioning who’s influencing society for the better, perhaps we should give credit to those “Karens” who care enough to stand by their convictions.