In my experience, most people don't seem to be in favour of 'political correctness'.

Is that right?

What are your thoughts on the subject?

(See also: http://www.wineintro.com/forum/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=13;t=000113#000000 )

'political correctness' is disgusting, its birth is to appease people. it means not calling a spade a spade.

Don't you think it's meant to encourage people to behave in a polite and respectful manner?

I've noticed this in our schools for the past say ten yars. We no longer are permitted to address the children as 'boys and girls' as it puts the boys first. It's now 'children' or 'students'.

The 'manhole' in the ceiling is now referred to as a 'person hole'. Ridiculous.And of course the list goes on.

It may be meant to encourage people to behave in a more respectful manner but I think now it's just gone too far. Good old fashioned manners should still prevail.

the way of behaviour of englishmen 50yrs ago possibly was more polite (i have only seen in films) compared to the present lot. I see that in the clinic - the above 70s behave impeccably. the 20s and 30s behave as if they are ill due to everybodies fault!

i probably am too harsh!!

anyway behaving in a more respectful manner has nothing to do with political correctness. it depends upon the parents, the upbringing and the prevailing social situation.

somsuj I agree entirely. Young people sometimes behave in such a way that they attract attention for the wrong reasons. I can't remember the last time I saw a man hold open a door for a lady but then unfortunately many ladies don't expect it these days.

I don't like young men/boys wearing their baseball caps inside the house and particularly dislike it if they wear it at the table. Yes, I ask them to remove them.

My daughter was raised with manners and fortunately she's kept them. If someone invites her out she always thanks them afterwards. She stands on a bus or train to allow an elderly person or pregnant woman to sit down. I've seen her help others in the mall by opening doors for mum's with prams etc.

I totally agree somsuj that it depends on the parents. At school I've even told children to close their mouths while eating and not talk with food in their mouths, the simple manners that obviously aren't taught at home.

Yeah...................you have an old saying 'charity begins at home' --- it is somewhat like that is not it?

nice to know about your daughter. i am sure she will grow up and be a bright and beutiful young lady.

Thankyou somsuj. Already grown up and still a lady. Although she'll always be my baby lol.

The saying 'charity begins at home' is a very old one. I'm n ot sure of it's origins but believe it's something along the lines of .. charity should begin at home because how can we be charitable towards others if not in our own home/family. (just my intpretation here).

Yes somsuj, charitable feelings, good behaviour, respect, common courtesy, etc, all begin with and within a good home life.

People generally say that my children are polite, helpful and well-behaved. They're not perfect, but people have said that they are a credit to me. Being a parent is not easy and there are things I might have done differently with hindsight, but I've tried my best.

Unfortunately some children may be brought up badly because their parents were brought up badly and they don't know any different - which is very sad.

I do miss the 'old-fashioned'politeness. Some of it might have been a bit over the top, but today we see lack of respect in too many areas of life.
(I know we've discussed respect a lot already.
http://www.wineintro.com/forum/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=8;t=000014#000002 )

What do you understand as 'political correctness' exactly?

well i think it is kind of "Spin". it is to say whatever you want to say making sure you do not offend anyone.
it is also a form of pleasing difficult groups - like by calling 'chairman' as 'chairperson'. (i am sure i am going to draw a lot of adverse comments by giving this example)
political correctness also involves reverse aparthaid in South Africa. it also means South Africa will turn a blind eye to whatever happens in Zimbabwe.