I thnk that so many children are born to unmarried parents these days that bastards might even be in the majority, and the term becomes less significant because they are just like everybody else and don't really stand out on their own like they used to at one time.

It is still used because it's sting as an insult is still alive and well,

but it's not used in accordance with it's proper meaning, because social norms have removed the stigma of being bastard children.

If it survives the test of time, like some of our 4 star curse words, than eventually it's original significance may not be remembered at all! It will just be a good way to be profane.

I do.

Because, like every thing else, it's not Politically Correct.