Tuesday, September 28, 2010

McLemore-No PC


Today’s American citizens have a constant fear of being judged. This is visible when you look at what many people are afraid to say. This fear has developed into political correctness, or PC. Political correctness is censorship that Americans accept because they are so afraid of the possibility of offending anyone. Even though political correctness was made to try to eliminate offensiveness, it has become so non offensive that it is actually offensive. We have become so non racist that we are racist. Many people would say that this is redundant, that being socially aware can only bring about peace. It is true that social awareness is better than racism, but it has been pushed too far. The perfect example is when a black man is running for any political position. First and foremost, he is never referred to as a black man, but rather an African American, and he is always called well spoken and educated. At first glance these all seem like compliments, but when you break them down they are somewhat racist. The term African American is simply unnecessary. Blacks have been in America almost as long as whites; and white candidates are never referred to as Caucasian. Saying that he is well spoken and educated makes it sound as if it is an uncommon for a black candidate to be these things. When people try to be political correct, they end up excluding people and inadvertently pointing out flaws. This is a two way street though, because many people are offended by every statement that is made about them. Americans have to become less sensitive so that people can realize truths about other people, rather than to try to create a forced sense of equality and peace.

1 comment:

  1. Some are referred to as Irish American. The Kennedy family was affectionately termed our Irish American first family. You might trace the way labels change. In the early 20th century the term was Negro, then colored, then in the sixties the label was black, then African American. Why do you think these changes occurred. Thoughtful blog.

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