Naomi - //Isn't it ridiculous. The N word, the P word, and Togo with his goose noise that he's reluctant to type because it might not be PC - and everyone knows what everyone else is talking about anyway. Just words. Yes, Anne-Marie Waters is absolutely right. Sheesh! //
I think there is a world of difference between people self-censoring out of simple politeness, and people being 'afraid of saying the 'wrong thing' - the two concepts are very different in my eyes.
Would I use the 'n' word? No, because it is a nasty mean-spirited word, and it's not part of my vocabulary.
Would I not join in a discussion about immigration because I am afraid someone may think me a bigot? No again, because I can express my opinion and leave no-one in doubt that I am not a bigot.
If people are 'afraid of saying the wrong thing', then they simply need to apply a little thought before they run off at the mouth.
It's that simple.