Returning to my first post, I believe that I read more into the rant than was intended. It seems clear from Richrads' comments after the tirade that he did, in fact, lose his temper and vent a torrent of hate directed at the audience.

I have found the conversation that ensued on this thread a very healthy one, in total. I do think there are contexts in which the word "nigger" can be used; specifically in a discussion such as this one.

I was raised by working class white parents from Kentucky, and nigger was a term used in my home when I was a child. At the age of six, I had the great experience to see Jackie Robinson playing at a Dodgers game. When my Dad pointed him out, I said "do you mean the nigger on second base?" A black man and woman sat in front of me, and they both turned in shock at what I said, the man standing up. I remember his wife saying "he's just a little boy" as an excuse for me. But I will never forget the pain and anger that I inflicted on these people, and it has stayed with me the rest of my life.

For me, the words that came from Michael Richards would be impossible. Someday, I hope the same becomes true for all of us.