Have you ever heard of the name Alan Turing? Ever heard or read about what he did? –Probably not, but you are familiar with what he inspired. You’re using it now. Turing’s “logic engines” were the first step towards the modern day computer. His essays outlined how the computer would work.

According to The Pride Network, in 1954 Homosexuality was illegal and Turing was given a choice; Imprisonment OR Hormonal Treatment. He would ultimately chose to commit suicide by drinking Cyanide after a year of hormone therapy. A brilliant mind taken too early because of fear.

He’s the textbook definition of a tragic hero. He refused to conform and stayed true to himself. He refused to live as anyone but the person he knew he was. Society told him that wasn’t an option. While his suicide was likely also fueled by anger, depression and profound sadness, the act itself was a violent rejection of a system of values that is so obsessive over sexual orientation, race, gender and religion to the point that people with these values consistently deny the world valuable knowledge for the sake of a sense of moral purity.

It is sad and wrong that fearful, ignorant people cause so many millions to suffer, including and particularly those who enlighten.