Jack, in the broader argument that you and DDN are having, I think what I disagree with you about
Posted by
TWuG
Jan 16 '15, 10:30
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is that "decency" limits should be expected *and* accepted.
Yes, society places decency limits on what it will tolerate before it decides to marginalize you through exclusion from group societal activities.
Casual racism in public is frowned upon, etc.
But those decency limits do not change unless theyt are challenged. Casual racism in public was commonplace until it was challenged. Sexism was commonplace (and is still in many areas) until it was challenged.
Those doing the challenging are seen as being uncivil by those who wish to maintain the status quo.
It's not that I disagree with you about a general desire to see more civility in public discourse, but that I disagree that incivility is necessarily bad. Without it, the status quo never changes.
So I am of a mind to support free expression that offends because we should all learn how to have our sensibilities and beliefs challenged without reacting violently. Violence is leagues worse than a verbal insult, no matter who that insult is leveled against.
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