So one of my writers posted an article this morning with the word 'retarded' in the title. Some of our clients balked and ultimately the CEO decided that the article should be changed to something more...compassionate.
It became my job to discuss the matter with the writer. However, his use of the word was not incorrect. By definition the word is sound and when used to reference the medical condition its acceptable.
However, the connotation of the word is something more difficult to explain.
We are in a dangerous practice of limiting our words, censoring thoughts, broadening empathy, making allowances, etc. for what is 'acceptable' and 'compassionate.'
When does that go too far?
1 comment:
so what did he use in place of retarded? mentally challenged?
please.
America is summed up by BlackStar in 'Theives in the Night'
"Not strong, only aggressive
not free, we only licensed
Not compassionate, only polite, not who the nicest.
Not good, but well behaved,
chasing after death so we can call ourselves brave..."
bout that BS. "Semantics" to be politically correct.
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