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by knightrider17 on May 9th, 2007

knightrider17

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Why is calling someone black all of a sudden not politically correct? We call caucasian people white, so why not call african americans black?

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  • by 2old2dieyoung on October 3rd, 2007

    2old2dieyoung

    Because terms are constantly changing, and this one isn't sudden, it's been on the radar for years.

    I personally think using the term 'black' isn't accurate for most of the darker skin tones, almost nobody is dark enough for 'black' to be anywhere near accurate.

    I also think the term "African American" is pretty stupid too... there are plenty of dark skinned people that aren't from Africa, and some caucasian people that are.

    In the end, the important thing is the attitude behind the choice of words. It is wise to use those that are most accepted by the community to which they refer.

    Comments

    • Wonderful answer! But how do we know the form of address most accepted by a community? It seems to change often and rather quickly.

      Jewel

      by Jewel on October 12th, 2007

    • Well, there are always differences of opinion within a group, but for the most part you can tell what the preference is according to what the members of that community identify themselves as.

      2old2dieyoung

      by 2old2dieyoung on October 13th, 2007

    • Nobody is actually 'white', either, unless they're albino.

      Michie

      by Michie on December 10th, 2007

    • Good call, Michie. Should caucasians be offended by being called white? I don't think so. And should those described as caucasians be offended if they're not actually from the Caucasus area?

      BSL is the PITS

      by BSL is the PITS on December 2nd, 2009

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