Todays climate is one of discouragement of Xenophobia and that is to be commended. I don't hear anyone recommending it and that is the line I take too. I would argue that it is easy for us to take this line because we are not in a conflict situation - I am not directly competing with you for food/space.

Maybe it will always be like this i.e. no more competition and tribal instincts will evolve away like our appendices and tails.

I believe that the contributors to this group are living in societies were xenophobia is not a critical survival behaviour - but this may not true across the whole world as there are constant civil wars happening (Africa, Balkans etc.).

It is easy to pass judgement on people for being racist, xenophobic or otherwise but they may have their reasons. On a discussion group like this there is no need for any of it. Since there is no need for it why have it ? If the only reason is that it used as a form of humour sometimes then I say drop it from your text in case you offend someone (IMHO the humour is lost when you put NOI after a statement so that isn't a good alternative ). My advice would be 'If you feel you must get into a racial slagging match with someone then why not ask them for their e-mail address and carry out your discussion away from this group'.

Incidentally - with the population increase thats taking place right now I think we can expect more wars. Alls well if your part of NATO of course - I'm alright Jack etc.

Sean MacRuaraidh