Political Correctness

Political correctness, might actually promote stereotypes because it is often marginalized groups (African Americans, disabled individuals, etc.) rather than less marginalized groups (e.g. lawyers) that wish to be identified in a different way. By having to be political correctness it reinforces the fact that these individuals have been victimized before and so reminds us of how they used to be identified and which in turn can lead to the stereotypes being reinforced. (e.g. not using the word 'retarded' in common vocabulary anymore reminds us of why we can't use it, which in turn reminds us that there are some intellectually challenged individuals who identify as being disabled, and thus MAY reinforce the stereotype that disabled individuals can't do many things and always need help.) Also PC is also more prevelent in groups that don't identify as that identity, and this in turn leads us to consider why something should be political correctness and then think about why it used to be no so true.

However, I do think that political correctness is necessary because without it, one could potentially offend a group of people without meaning to (e.g. being discriminatory without being prejudice) Having political correctness teaches us the history behind words and there association with groups of people and why they are bad to use. If we did not have a reason as to why we should not do something, then we would not think about not doing it. (e.g. people might continue to use the word 'nigger' to describe an African American and not realize the history and reasons behind the original use of the word, so might not realize why they are being disrespectful.) Sometimes I think political correctness goes maybe a bit too far and we all end up arguing amongst ourselves and not knowing what to call people. I think it is best to ask on an individual basis what people prefer or go with what the majority of the people with that identity is best to avoid any unintended upset or offense.