I Am Wondering If There Is An Offense Culture In This Society And What Is Causing It

[gordiescotland1]

Hi I seem to come across situations in the newspapers and tv where people individuals and or groups of people are offended and taking offense. I am wondering if there is a culture of offense, free speech almost seems to be a thing of the past unless you are not offending someone. It seemed different in my day !! Im only 43 but it just seems that people are too touchy and easily offended and I include myself in this. You cant seem to say anything to anyone at all nowadays. The scientist has resigned for his comments about women. A bit OTT it was quite naive of him but still to lose his post? I mean today i was at the bus stop boiling hot weather the timetable said there was a bus every 10 minutes into town 20 minutes later and no bus there was a woman with 2 children screaming their head off and I turned to her and said the person who wrote that timetable must have been dsylexic and she said thats very offensive Im dyslexic it was just tongue in cheek I just ignored her and walked into town instead of getting a bus. But people are so touchy and sensitive

[ichkeria]

The trouble with laughing at people who take offence is: it's funny until it's you on the end of it. I would be very surprised if there are many people who don't take offence at anything.
One problem is that there are simply a lot more ways of offending than there used to be and a lot more ways of complaining about it. I mean look at the poor woman who admittedly rather unwisely tweeted a picture of a St George's flag in Rochester. Lots of people got offended by that and she was rather hastiy sacked from her job. I seem to recall a lot of fuss about that as well in various places

[Khandro]

Really there's nothing new in all of this, men used to fight duels to the death over quite trivial things to prove their 'manliness', duels were fought because one man did not like the way another looked or spoke to his betrothed, or his sister.

[woofgang]

Actually, thinking about it, I think its a return to better manners rather than a new thing, as Khandro has said. The older etiquette books were very clear on appropriate topics for conversation and the need for avoidance of personal remarks when among acquaintances and strangers. "speaking your mind" was reserved for family and close friends.

[-Talbot-]

I said the person who wrote that timetable must have been dsylexic and she said thats very offensive Im dyslexic

You have to learn to think on your feet, Jordi.

I would said 'great...do you mind reading it and telling me what 'actual' time the next bus is due?'

[Khandro]

Full marks Talbot!

[stuey]

What a load of poppycock! Now you watch, Poppy is going to irately post: "What did you just insinuate that I am?!!"

[kenjonbro]

i think the OP expected the lady to roll around in laughter wetting herself And after managing to get up, give him a bear hug and salute him " Sir thank you for brightening up my stressful day.I love you .I want to have your babies!"