--- Michael Atherton <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
> I think this process is ridiculous. A particular
> group decides
> the proper language to be used when referring to
> themselves, then
> the attitudes of those outside of the group
> (insiders are normally
> exempt) are evaluated based how "sensitive" they are
> to the newly
> defined terms. Sometimes it's not just the words,
> but the contexts.
> In some contexts you can use "Jew" and others are
> deemed insulting.
> Are there still "Red Skin" sports teams? Is
> "Indian" now out of
> fashion? This focus on terminology is as irrational
> as esoteric
> table manners and severs the same basic function: to
> differentiate
> between those in the in-group and those in the
> out-group. I believe
> that a certain amount of tolerance is necessary to
> protect the right
> of individuals to express themselves freely. The
> bright spot is
> that the Supreme Court has repeatedly struck down
> speech codes.
>
> Michael Atherton
> Prospect Park
The problem with this particular post is that it
appears some people are offended that they are
expected to respect others.
What the hell does it matter if people self ID under
any terminology? Again, its not a matter of law but
respect. So, I'm not clear on what the Courts have to
do with this.
I like your examples because, to use your language,
they were "in fashion", and now not. Truth is, they
have ALWAYS been disrespectful and a sign of a country
that was divided along the racial lines embedded in
law. Redskins and such, should have NEVER been "in
fashion" and as we progress to a more enlightened
society, I hope that we are
sensitive/respectful/cognizant of some of our terms
and the feelings that history brings up.
To call it simple political correctness is insulting.
Just assume you can not assume the perspective of
everyone else and there are things that are not
logical you will not understand, but it doesn't make
it any less real.
Internal and external language norms have always been
different among American racial and ethnic minority
groups. There are also difference based on regions
too. In the last year I've worked in the East, South
and here (upper Midwest), when ordering Ginger Ale
I've had to adjust from pop to soda to Coke (as in
cola. In Texas, coke is generic for any kind of pop).
I didn't throw a hissy fit and demand they call it
soda because that's what written on the can.
Eric Mitchell
St Paul
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