|
I do understand what the word "retard" means, and I do believe that many people would find it offensive to be described in that way, or for a loved one to be described in that way.
That the term "man" is used to encompass man and women is in itself sexist. Language constantly changes, and certainly should be changed if it is offensive. Many words relating to race and ethnicity were acceptable 100 years ago that are deeply offensive today - this is how language changes.
I certainly dont propose to legally forbid you from using any word unless it is hate speech or inciting violence, but what we do propose, is that the education system, the language of the state be appropriate and politically correct.
If you want to refer to mankind, no one is going to stop you. If - for example - a government form including something like "the person filling this in must confirm if he is employed" that is clearly unacceptable and should be changed. At school, children should be taught to use terms which do not cause offense and which communicate intention in a way that is inclusive and egaliterian. If a school text book gives examples of human interaction and all the examples include white males, this is wrong, and should be changed, because it excludes minority groups and women... this is what we mean by political correctness.
It is not about forbidding free speech, it is about education and shaping language in a way that is appropriate. It is as easy to say "chairperson" as "chairmen" ... so why should we chose to use a sexist word, in favour of a word that is gender neutral?
__________________
"Do not tell lies, and do not do what you hate,
for all things are plain in the sight of Heaven. For nothing
hidden will not become manifest, and nothing covered will remain
without being uncovered."
The Gospel of Thomas
|