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September 18, 2008, 11:19 am PDT
09/12 The N-Word Debate
Quote From: aaron2020I understand an respect your position. I want to let you know that I am a black man and I respect what you are saying. However, if you feel so passionately about this then why don't you use the N word publicly? If you believe in free speech and that there should be no double standard, then go outside and yell the N word and see what happens. You wouldn't do that because you respect black people too much. It seems that you want to use this word simply because it is "forbidden" or taboo. Don't. It is not serious enough of an issue for you to have to try and solve it yourself. Just leave the word alone. You may not always understand us but you do respect us, and that is what is most important. If you really want to help, then do not use this word and let us deal with it. I have used the N word publicly, and towards whites as well publicly, if I feel it is justified, I shall use it again publicly. What I have an issue with is the double standard. Unless and until the word is deemed inappropriate for all to use, including Blacks, if I feel it is justified, I will use the word. You are correct, I do respect Blacks, as I do all races, discrimination is an ugly thing, I will not go out of my way to offend anyone. Taboo has nothing to do with it, if and when I use the word, it is because I feel I am justified in it's use, regardless of what race the word is directed at. I know how the word is perceived, however, please understand I am still conscious of the original definition of the word, and when I use it, it is generally meant as that, directed at the lowlifes and deadbeats, when I use it, it is not meant as a derogatory statement against just Blacks, I use it to refer to those who actually fit the original definition. I do have many more words in my vocabulary to cut someone down if I feel it's needed, often without them realizing what I am doing while I'm doing it, but again, if I resort to such low standards, it is usually to those the word describes, and they often do not understand what I am saying to begin with. For the most part, I do not use the word, privately or publicly, that is my personal choice, yet, if and only if I feel it's justified, i shall use it privately and publicly. Remove the double standard, and I would not object or feel so passionately about this in the first place. That is the real point I have been trying to make. If the word is so offensive to Blacks, then why in the world would you use it among yourselves? That alone makes no sense to me, but as long as the word is in use by one, it should be allowed to be used by all, no exceptions. Considering the history of this word, it would seem more logical that everyone would wish to distance themselves from it, instead of trying to make it a term of endearment or anything else. Regardless of which definition one goes by with this word, it was never meant as anything kind. I will say it once more, the word is either offensive to all, or it isn't, acceptable for all to use, or unacceptable for anyone to use......eliminate the double standard and there is no problem.
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This two-syllable expression is arguably the most divisive word in society. Dr. Phil tackles this touchy topic with help from a panel of outspoken luminaries: civil rights activist Rev. Al Sharpton; legendary comedian and writer Paul Mooney; CSI actor and author Hill Harper; comedian Sheryl Underwood and conservative radio talk show host Michael Graham. First, is there a double standard that allows African-Americans to use this sensitive word, while non-blacks are forbidden? The debate heats up when Rachel, a white guest, says she calls her husband the N-word all the time. Then, should hip-hop artists be censored or fined for using the N-word in their songs? Becky says rappers promote negative stereotypes with their lyrics, but find out who Rev. Al Sharpton thinks should face the music. Plus, does tone or intent make a difference when using the N-word? See what Dr. Phil thinks and share your thoughts here.
