Editorial: Resist the temptation to tell it like it is

There is a reason why flight attendant Steven Slater has become a cult hero on the internet. Described by friends as "responsible" and with nearly 30 years experience, Mr Slater got into an argument with the passenger who had disobeyed aircraft safety rules, only to be sworn at.

Seizing the in-flight intercom he exercised his right of reply in pithy terms, helped himself to a beer from the galley and jumped down the aircraft's emergency slide. Now Mr Slater should not have done what he did, but we must have a lot of sympathy for him. It is clear his patience finally snapped.

Let's be honest here: how many of us have not felt like doing the very same when someone has made an obviously unreasonable demand, or just been downright rude. Most of us at one time or another. How satisfying to turn round to tell them what you really think of their ridiculous, selfish behaviour.

And yet ... and yet ... tempting as it is, it would be wiser if we did not follow Mr Slater's example. First, it is unlikely to be a good career move and second, if you lose it you only descend to the level of your tormentor. So if the temptation to do a Slater comes along, it would be best to resist it. Take a deep breath, count to 10, and then ... be horribly nice to your victim. They'll absolutely hate that.