In this age of political correctness...

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#26
Just a couple of definitions:

Political correctness (PC) is essentially what is currently felt to be correct in language and behaviour in regard to a range of issues including racism and sexism.

In Australia, racism and sexism are seen as the new ‘taboos’. In line with becoming a more sophisticated and tolerant society, some basic human rights have been enshrined in law to protect people against discrimination— the Racial Vilification Act 1992, the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 and the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commis-sion Act 1986 all seek to protect basic human rights. Discriminatory language, which was once widely used in this country and others, is now one of the biggest social taboos. Political correctness is partially based on the notion that the language we use defines or gives away the attitudes we hold towards what we are describing, whether we hold this attitude consciously or not. Therefore, in order to be politically correct our choice of language is paramount.

- Taunt et al, Heinemann English language

A new vogue for reflecting changes in social expectations has been the push for politically correct terminology in a variety of domains, particularly in education, the media and government. Political correctness is mostly expressed through the use of words and phrases that encourage an attitude of tolerance and acceptance of a variety of life experiences which formerly were sometimes considered less acceptable.

This has led to some backlash as the changes have sometimes been ‘imposed’ before the underlying assumptions across society have changed. Some of the movements that have adopted political correctness in language usage include the feminist movement and environmentalists. These movements have had their extremists and in some cases people have identified more inclusive and politically correct language usage with these zealots. This has sometimes led to lampooning of politically correct language and to the term politically correct itself developing negative connotations.

Also...

Another way in which changing social expectations are reflected is in the reclamation of certain words by the people originally victimised by their dysphemistic use. For example, recently the word wog has been adopted by some people of Mediterranean background as a term to be proud of. Similarly, homosexuals have reclaimed gay and queer may be undergoing the same process.

- Mulder et al, Macmillan English language

Own thoughts:
PC is a difficult issue because it is so dynamic. What is considered appropriate in one context or with a certain audience may not apply to the situation in the adjacent building. What is obvious is the necessity to tread carefully . In most cases, language that is considered taboo/un-PC had negative connotations in the past. People have differing attitudes, and may or may not accept changes to meaning. IMO, the best path is to be cautious, using the most generic/safe option until an understanding develops with the audience in question. Even if they are not members of the group in question, some take offence to the use of words such as 'fellow', 'wog' etc., as it seems to be a reflection of your personal attitudes, keeping in mind that these words were used in a derogatory sense in the past.

In response to Skipper's original post, you'd probably need to tread carefully, especially with religion. The issue here is not so much PC language, but that you are putting the emphasis on difference. Would you find it bizarre if people started referring to you as 'athiest'? (I'm just making an assumption here, correct me if I'm wrong). By using "terrorist" and "hypocrite", you are making both generalisations and value-judgements regarding their beliefs, which is probably regarded as unacceptable behaviour in this day and age. However, as I said above, it all depends on context. If it is with a friends exclusively then I dare say you'll get away with it (if they approve). But in a gathering where you are unsure of someone's attitude, it's better to be safe than sorry. The line in the sand changes with the tide, but there are some times you can be sure where it lies.
 

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Contra Mundum

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#30
Tim56 said:
I don't want to comment about specific terms, but I will say this. I find it amazingly annoying how people try and insinuate offence at every remote opportunity, and that many people need to grow up and get some perspective.
How suprising!
 

theGimp

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#33
mantis said:
AAAAHHHH now I get it, Gimp & M29, OOOHHH LA LA. :D
Shock horror... a pathetic schoolyard reply.

When did you come out Mantis ?
And if you have not yet, tell us now how proud you are and lead by example. Or are you just full of ******** as I suspect.
 

theGimp

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#35
Thanks Mantis, loved watching you squirm there. You have no ammunition or courage and have been exposed.

Wont practice what you preach .... back to class with your lollipop.
 

mantis

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#36
theGimp said:
Thanks Mantis, loved watching you squirm there. You have no ammunition or courage and have been exposed.

Wont practice what you preach .... back to class with your lollipop.
Nice try little boy, but why would I squirm, I'm not the one who thinks there is anything wrong with being gay, you & M29 are the homophobes. :p
 

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M29

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#38
mantis said:
Nice try little boy, but why would I squirm, I'm not the one who thinks there is anything wrong with being gay, you & M29 are the homophobes. :p
Why would I fear gays? Tell me mantis. This will be interesting...
 

theGimp

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#39
mantis said:
Nice try little boy, but why would I squirm, I'm not the one who thinks there is anything wrong with being gay, you & M29 are the homophobes. :p
I do think there is something wrong with being gay. No denying that.
You have been brainwashed into thinking that its cool to be gay. You know, like pokemon and barbie dolls, something you can relate to, that sort of cool.

Try to understand that being called a homophobe implies that you are afraid of gay people. That is why I chose to expose you, that is why you shouldnt make claims about people you know nothing about.
Do you understand now.
Do you really believe that it is a phobia? Perhaps it makes you feel better about yourself to think that others have something wrong with them. It helps squash some of your inner shame or something.. help us understand why you do feel the need to call someone that Mantis.
 

funkyfreo

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#40
Just to turn thread on its head.

Given we have just endorsed the Coalition with a grand old majority, it is now actually PC to:

1) Not want to apologise to the Indigenous people's of the land.
2) To think a woman's place is in the kitchen.
3) To say that immigrants should assimilate, rather than keep bits of their culture.
4) Hit your kids as discipline.
5) Dislike, and be prejudiced against, gays.
6) Tell women they should not be alloowed to have abortions.

Next time someone calls me PC I'm going to tell them to check the election results! My pro women, pro peace, pro reconcilliation, pro environment ideals are quite clearly POLITICALLY INCORRECT!!
 

mantis

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#41
You two (or maybe just one with 2 usernames), are also in denial that you are homophobes, better be careful who you sit next to at the footy, or the cricket, they might be gay & you might catch Gay germs. :p
 

funkyfreo

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#42
theGimp said:
Try to understand that being called a homophobe implies that you are afraid of gay people. That is why I chose to expose you, that is why you shouldnt make claims about people you know nothing about.
Do you understand now.
Actually, it does not imply that. Dictionary.com:
"ho·mo·pho·bi·a ( P ) Pronunciation Key (hm-fb-)
n.
Fear of or contempt for lesbians and gay men.
Behavior based on such a feeling. "

Fear OR Contempt. So when someone calls you homphobic I'd suggest they are saying you have contempt for Gay people - and I think you have demonstrated that. Contempt being:

":con·tempt ( P ) Pronunciation Key (kn-tmpt)
n.
The feeling or attitude of regarding someone or something as inferior, base, or worthless; scorn.
The state of being despised or dishonored; disgrace.
Open disrespect or willful disobedience of the authority of a court of law or legislative body. "
 

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#43
mantis said:
You two (or maybe just one with 2 usernames), are also in denial that you are homophobes, better be careful who you sit next to at the footy, or the cricket, they might be gay & you might catch Gay germs. :p
This is definately squirming of the highest order.
11 thousand posts and you are this childish and pathetic when confronted. I bet that dog is sick and tired of staring at your feet while you squirm and whinge on bigfooty.
If you cant discuss this without acting like a little girl then I wont bother with you and you will be left alone... which Im sure you are very used to.
Good luck with Year 9.
You may wish to spend more time playing with your (incredibly ugly) dog who is lucky enough not to understand how weak you really are.

See, I can act like a liitle girl too, its easy.:D
 

theGimp

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#44
funkyfreo said:
Actually, it does not imply that. Dictionary.com:
"ho·mo·pho·bi·a ( P ) Pronunciation Key (hm-fb-)
n.
Fear of or contempt for lesbians and gay men.
Behavior based on such a feeling. "

Fear OR Contempt. So when someone calls you homphobic I'd suggest they are saying you have contempt for Gay people - and I think you have demonstrated that. Contempt being:

":con·tempt ( P ) Pronunciation Key (kn-tmpt)
n.
The feeling or attitude of regarding someone or something as inferior, base, or worthless; scorn.
The state of being despised or dishonored; disgrace.
Open disrespect or willful disobedience of the authority of a court of law or legislative body. "
Actually, it does imply that.
Phobia implies fear.

Get back to dictionary.com and look up implies... sheesh really, why did you bother ?
 

funkyfreo

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#45
theGimp said:
Actually, it does imply that.
Phobia implies fear.

Get back to dictionary.com and look up implies... sheesh really, why did you bother ?
That WAS the dictionary definition you wally!! THAT IS WHAT HOMOPHOBIA MEANS LIKE IT OR LUMP IT!! "fear" is only one possible interpretation. You don't have to be SCARED of them to be homophobic.

I was joist making a point, that was CORRECT, and yet you still carry on as though you are correct.

Well and truly SPANKED!!!
 

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#46
funkyfreo said:
That WAS the dictionary definition you wally!! THAT IS WHAT HOMOPHOBIA MEANS LIKE IT OR LUMP IT!! "fear" is only one possible interpretation. You don't have to be SCARED of them to be homophobic.

I was joist making a point, that was CORRECT, and yet you still carry on as though you are correct.

Well and truly SPANKED!!!
My, You are a sad little thing arent you Funky ?

News flash: *** I am correct *** and I await your apology.
You have clearly stated the definition of homophobia. I dont dispute this as it basically agrees with what I have said.
I have clearly stated what it implies when you use it.
Do you understand the difference or are you mentally retarted ?
Have you looked up implies yet ? I cant wait for your cut and paste definition so we can all have a good laugh.
You can claim that you have spanked me when you prove me wrong. Until then get back to dictionary.com and learn how to use the language you fool.

Having a hissy fit wont change the fact that you are wrong. Idiot.
 

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#47
theGimp said:
My, You are a sad little thing arent you Funky ?

News flash: *** I am correct *** and I await your apology.
You have clearly stated the definition of homophobia. I dont dispute this as it basically agrees with what I have said.
I have clearly stated what it implies when you use it.
Do you understand the difference or are you mentally retarted ?
Have you looked up implies yet ? I cant wait for your cust and paste definition so we can all have a good laugh.
You can claim that you have spanked me when you prove me wrong. Until then get back to dictionary.com and learn how to use the language you fool.

Having a hissy fit wont change the fact that you are wrong. Idiot.
im·ply ( P ) Pronunciation Key (m-pl)
tr.v. im·plied, im·ply·ing, im·plies
To involve by logical necessity; entail: Life implies growth and death.
To express or indicate indirectly: His tone implied disapproval. See Synonyms at suggest. See Usage Note at infer.
Obsolete. To entangle.

********************

How does that change ANYTHING? It certainly does not change the definition of homophobic, which is fear OR Contempt. You then carried on about how you do not have "fear" - BUT THAT IS IRRELEVANT!!!!!

Good luck in your English TER - you obviously need it - or is that not for a few years?
 

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#48
funkyfreo said:
im·ply ( P ) Pronunciation Key (m-pl)
tr.v. im·plied, im·ply·ing, im·plies
To involve by logical necessity; entail: Life implies growth and death.
To express or indicate indirectly: His tone implied disapproval. See Synonyms at suggest. See Usage Note at infer.
Obsolete. To entangle.

********************

How does that change ANYTHING? It certainly does not change the definition of homophobic, which is fear OR Contempt. You then carried on about how you do not have "fear" - BUT THAT IS IRRELEVANT!!!!!

Good luck in your English TER - you obviously need it - or is that not for a few years?
How does that change ANYTHING?

I have assumed you are mentally retarted or blinded by your obivous gayness so I will try and be patient with you.
Before you came in with completely pointless definitions, I and others disputed that being scared of gays was the case when you are saying you think there is something wrong with being gay.

If you say someone is phobic.. it IMPLIES they are afraid... can you get that through your thick skull, go on, im sure you can if you really try.

Even the person who used the term understood that it implied that people are scared of gays. Why cant you ? You have no idea how stupid you look.
Its time to concede to you new owner.

You have just made a complete fool of yourself and I cannot justify spending another minute explaining it to you.
As for my English.. Im not the one who made 10 spelling mistakes on the bits I didnt cut and paste.

One final assumption: You are as gay as possible and so very ashamed of it.

NOW THATS SPANKED !!! But I bet you would like that huh ?
 

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#49
theGimp said:
If you say someone is phobic.. it IMPLIES they are afraid... can you get that through your thick skull, go on, im sure you can if you really try.
While trying to avoid your homophobic dribble, which obviously extends to contempt for those who have no problem with gays, because I am clearly not gay, I just have to direct you to the dictionary definition in my previous post, which states that homophobia is fear or contempt. It does not necessarily imply fear. You seem to think it does 100% imply fear - but you are wrong.

You are proof, because you do not fear gays (you said so), but are clearly homophobic.

Phobia:

pho·bi·a ( P ) Pronunciation Key (fb-)
n.
A persistent, abnormal, and irrational fear of a specific thing or situation that compels one to avoid it, despite the awareness and reassurance that it is not dangerous.
A strong fear, dislike, or aversion.

You have a strong aversion or dislike to gays - agreed?

If so - homophobic. Simple.
 

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#50
funkyfreo said:
While trying to avoid your homophobic dribble, which obviously extends to contempt for those who have no problem with gays, because I am clearly not gay, I just have to direct you to the dictionary definition in my previous post, which states that homophobia is fear or contempt. It does not necessarily imply fear. You seem to think it does 100% imply fear - but you are wrong.

You are proof, because you do not fear gays (you said so), but are clearly homophobic.

Phobia:

pho·bi·a ( P ) Pronunciation Key (fb-)
n.
A persistent, abnormal, and irrational fear of a specific thing or situation that compels one to avoid it, despite the awareness and reassurance that it is not dangerous.
A strong fear, dislike, or aversion.

You have a strong aversion or dislike to gays - agreed?

If so - homophobic. Simple.
Not agreed, you have got lost in your pointless definitions and are now branching to general assumptions. How did you deduce that I have contempt for those who have no problem with gays ?
Id love to know how you came to that conclusion.

I have yet to claim that I even dislike gay people, I work with them and am related to them.
I dislike the concept of being gay.
I think there is something wrong with it.
I dont expect you to understand but this is why I do not like to be told Im homophobic. It implies that I am afraid of gay people. I am clearly not.
If it makes you feel better go ahead and call me homophobic, by your thought process I probably am. But not by mine.

You want simple ? Here you go.

All I know is that a phobia implies fear. If I am arachnaphobic..(sp) I fear spiders, my first thought about them is not that I hold them in contempt. Who thinks like this apart from you ?
You dont think that a phobia implies fear and this makes you a fool.

Do a test ask anyone you can find to define homophobia and see if they use the word 'fear'. Then you can report back with an apology.
 
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