Seeing as I started the thread I guess I had better try to round it off?

Seems like everyone is in some sort of agreement that racist/sexist/anything-else-ist slurs are a problem. On the other hand political correctness, in my opionion and that of a good few contributers, seems to cause its own problems as well.

We are all, hopefuly, like minded, mature individuals here. We don't need the rules applied by the humourless beaurocrats of Whitehall, Washington or wherever else in the world. Let's use our common sense instead. Don't make purposely offensive statements but don't, on the other hand, take offense at anyone requesting or posting songs with offensive lyrics.

Words and meanings change constantly. Just because I sing about a gay fuselier doesn't mean I am promoting or decrying homosexuality in the armed forces. I don't, however, sing my Suzie, she's a niggers gal because I feel uncomfortable with the term. (Original version of the Hooker John shanty BTW - I substitute the word with sailor and it scans just as well.)

At the end of the day if we are good at self government we will not need interference from the thought police at all!

Cheers one and all for submitting and making an interesting and informative discussion.

Dave the gnome, still British and proud of it. or should I say Dave the verticaly challenged, Vive la France!