I’ve sat down to write this article multiple times, and each time the same thing happens. I highlight the page, and delete everything. Why? Because the concept of political correctness has developed into such a controversial topic, that I suffer to understand its meaning.
At first glance you think, “Of course. Why shouldn’t we expect one another to be sensitive to our differences?” We live in a well-developed society, filled with individuals who have varying backgrounds, personalities and styles – therefore, communicating in a form that shows you are aware that who you are may differ from who the other person is, is an appropriate expectation. Yet, I think we have strayed away from that definition.
Instead, something that originated to develop a more human society has caused a great tear in our society. These expectations have not only requested that we become aware of the various identities that make up our society, but with that, they have labeled us for the times we say something wrong, or admit to being ignorant on a topic.
We are now referred to as homophobic, when we use the term “queer” incorrectly. We are now seen as anti-Semitic when we assume that all Jewish people celebrate Shabbat dinner, or don’t eat bacon. But that is not the case. Oftentimes, these comments are simply a lack of knowledge, and the only true way to fill the gap between your knowledge and your potential is through discussion and an awareness of your naivety.
Now, the fear people feel if they were to say something incorrect has taken away the potential we have to learn about the differences in society, and to correct our ignorance. It has silenced many, and limited our ability to educate one another on who we are, and what we would prefer.
But, with that being said, I don’t believe the response is to claim, “political correctness is stupid.” It is not. We should expect others to speak to us in a language that shows we respect them. What we should not do is respond furiously when they slip — when they say something naïve, or ignorant. Because it doesn’t always reflect them as an individual. Our society is complicated, and often times many people feel alone and misunderstood. If we attempt to educate one another on how to talk about these difficult issues, I believe we can develop an environment safe for people to utilize their freedom of speech, in the manner it should be practiced.