The Ubiquity of Political Correctness in Our Lives

It's a widely accepted truth that many individuals across the globe are champions of political correctness. To many, the concept of political correctness (PC) has become inseparably intertwined with the values of social justice, inclusion, and respect. However, the reality is that the term is much more nuanced than it is often perceived to be. This article explores the various aspects of political correctness and why it is, indeed, integral to our everyday interactions.

Defining Political Correctness

According to Britannica, political correctness is a term used to describe language that aims to avoid giving offense or to give offense to the smallest number of people possible. This encompassing definition is rooted in the idea of linguistic sensitivity and the consideration of diverse groups and their identities, such as race, gender, culture, or sexual orientation.

Political Correctness in Day-to-Day Life

The essence of being politically correct transcends just language; it includes a broader spectrum of social conduct aimed at inclusivity and respect. Here are a few examples:

Healthcare Facilities and Historical Context: Long before the term 'politically correct' entered common usage, the institution of The School for Imbeciles in your locality had its name changed in pursuit of greater linguistic sensitivity. This change was a recognition that certain terms, while true to historical reality, could be off-putting or disrespectful.

Family Ties and Tact: In private settings, our ability to adhere to socially accepted language norms, such as avoiding racial epithets, presents a clear case of political correctness. Refraining from offensive speech even when it might be tempting to do so in the heat of family debates is an example of practicing PC.

The Misunderstanding of Political Correctness

A common misconception about political correctness lies in the belief that those who advocate for it are simply latching onto an over-sensitive, liberal agenda. However, this assumption is flawed. The notion of political correctness spans a wide array of viewpoints and is not inherently tied to any one ideological position.

For instance, while it may feel like those with conservative viewpoints never employ politically correct language, they often do. However, these terms are more likely to be found in contexts where they align with traditional values or are perceived as a way to hold a seemingly inconsequential position. This is akin to the adoption of terms like 'phy ed' or 'Homicide bomber,' which are not inherently politically correct.

Myth-Busting Political Correctness

The following are some common myths surrounding the term 'political correctness':

Political Correctness is Inherently Liberal: This is a prevalent misconception. Political correctness can manifest in any ideological framework, from conservative to liberal. For example, instead of saying 'pro-life,' the term 'pro-choice' has been adopted in a political context, aligning with an ideology that seeks to be inclusive beyond traditional labels.

Official Language is Politically Correct: The idea that official language is inherently politically correct is shortsighted. Official language may reflect a specific political or social agenda, but it does not automatically make it politically correct. Every language change is a reflection of societal values and not just a wholesale adoption of liberal ideals.

Conclusion

It's clear that a misunderstanding of political correctness often underpins the opposition to it. Rather than being a uniquely liberal concept, political correctness is a reflection of a broader social movement towards inclusivity, respect, and linguistic sensitivity. In essence, the ubiquity of political correctness is a testament to our growing awareness of the impact of language and actions on individuals and communities.

Everyone practices political correctness; it's embedded in the fabric of our social interactions, broadening our horizons and fostering a more inclusive society. As such, it's crucial to engage in informed discussions about what it means and how it can be implemented in a way that respects and celebrates diversity.