Irrationality and Symbolic Fear, College Campus Edition

Back in January, I was required by our university system to sit through the hour-long Plan-Prepare-React training. Right at the top of the hour, our presenter told us in no uncertain terms that we were more likely to struck by lightning than to experience any of the scenarios that were to be covered. She then launched unflinchingly into the training (which included instructions to be on constant alert and to imagine a violent altercation at every new place I go). I joked on social media: "When can I expect my state-mandated SALSA™ (Survive a Lightning Strike Alive) training?" The answer of course is never. None of this is about rationality. This is the kind of hypocrisy that drives a person who teaches critical thinking and sociology absolutely batty.