Political Correctness

Don't Offend

Political correctness is the practice of never saying anything that could possibly offend anyone.

As a form of courtesy, it makes sense. As a vehicle to convey meaningful information, it does not. It often results in nothing of substance ever being said.

Political correctness makes people weak. It takes away their ability to grow a thick hide. Nowadays, it sometimes seems like people are afraid to swear, afraid to offend, afraid to voice an opinion, afraid to talk about minorities, afraid to make a pass, afraid of women.

Explicit Language

I never use explicit language myself. I am not good at it; I would only make a fool out of myself. But explicit language is good. It is colorful and powerful. I find it cute. I admire people who know how to use it well.

Racial Jokes

It is funny how nowadays, the only ones who still make racial jokes, are African-Americans. They poke fun at themselves, and don't hesitate to use the "N" word. One has to admire their ability to see the system in perspective, and not to take themselves as seriously as the rest of us seem to.

TV Shows

Call it political correctness. Or call it censorship...

It bothers me when all the juicy comments by guests of the Jerry Springer show are beeped out. I love to listen to that stuff. It is linguistically amusing. It is a form of art that is slowly disappearing.

Bombers

I picked up a book about B-29 bombers the other day (the type used to drop the first nuclear bomb on Hiroshima). It was refreshing in a way. Those World War 2 bombers used to have pictures of (half) naked women all over them. Back then, things were simple: the military was for men, and men were allowed to be men. Nowadays, fighters and bombers are not even allowed to display teeth anymore. Believe it or not, but those little details used to impress the world.

The Trend

Sometimes I get the feeling that everybody is sick of political correctness, except large public corporations (for legal reasons), politicians (because it sounds good), lawyers (it is a good way to sue people and make money) and some victim groups.

Enrico, 12/26/98, 02/22/01

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