Political correctness has gone too far.
The movement needs clarity.
Wikipedia defines political correctness (adjectivally: politically correct; commonly abbreviated PC) as language, policies or measures that should avoid offense or disadvantage to members of particular groups in society.
Political correctness was designed to enhance sensitivity in gender, race, religion and sexual orientation. However, it has become more about censoring information and the policing of morality.
Most Americans believe that political correctness has grown into a bigger problem than it was meant to solve.
A recent Rasmussen survey finds that 26% of American adults believe freedom of speech is acceptable. Sixty-eight percent disagree and say Americans must not express something politically inappropriate.
Yascha Mounka, professor at Johns Hopkins University, reported, “Among the general population, 80% admit that political correctness is a problem in our country.”
Young people are equally uncomfortable with political correctness: 74% of adults ages 24 to 29 and 79% under age 24 do not believe that political correctness is constructive.
The 24 and under group are more community-focused than former generations. They are asking: Can communities improve without open dialogue?
The Atlantic and The New York Times both released data (in the last year) that a high percentage of young liberals disagree with political correctness. It is preposterous to legislate what was previously a cultural norm. Have we abandoned respect and substituted it for political policing?
Political correctness is unnecessary where simple respect is in place. Restricting conversation can never improve our communities.
And restricting debate is not the answer to healing our prejudice.
Vigorous debate was once a healthy part of our culture.
Debate was evidence of tolerance. There is no data that validates political correctness has enhanced our culture in any way.
Dr. Ben Carson says, “Civility and political correctness are not the same. Civility constrains behavior and words based on genuine caring about others, while political correctness is only a facade of caring while hoping to cultivate public approval.”
There is a great need for boundaries within the politically correct movement. At face value, political correctness can be effective. However, the policing of our conversations is one step away from limiting our freedom of speech.
Freedom of speech is a fundamental right of all Americans and a fundamental principle of our nation.
That is straight-up “politically correct.” {eoa}
Thomas McDaniels is a pastor/writer and the guy behind thomasmcdaniels.com. He has written for ChurchLeaders.com and currently is a contributing writer for Fox News. He is also the founder of LifeBridge.tv and the Longview Dream Center in Longview, Texas. Thomas can be found on social media on Instagram and Twitter.
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