Should The "N" word be banned from the English language? Rating Options

[BamBamBoogie]

I think that everyone should THINK before posting. Thanks.

[sixfive]

n*gga please.

[BamBamBoogie]

No? It's just a word. If the n word is banned, a new word will come up.

So its okay to just allow it to be recognized as an actual word? It was once legal to keep slaves. Its now banned, but in some areas of the world it still exists. Should we have just kept slavery since people are going to do it anyway or find new ways to do it?

[BamBamBoogie]

slavery =/= english language

Actually it is equal if you think about it. Slavery was powered partly by words. Many slaves were enslaved simply because they didn't undestand english. Many were manipulated into thinking that slavery was justified by the Bible, which was written in English. They also could not escape because they could not read English signs and directions. Language can be used as a tool to manipulate people. It can be twisted into all forms of propaganda. Knowledge is Power as Thomas Jefferson said, a man who owned slaves as well. Being able to understand English is a form of Knowledge which is power and therefore allows u to manipulate or enslave others mentally, as well as physically with words.

[RCKstarh]

i think it's just a word...
even african americans use it with eachother as a sign of friendship or used as a pronoun to represent a guy (sometimes grl)
even tho it should no longer be thought of as a racist word towards blacks it still does. But if the english language does rid of it, they have to rid of "cracker" "s**c" and any other racial slur

[brooklyneast05]

no it should not be banned. we don't ban other words, why ban it. besides it's not going to stop anyone from saying it.....

[*paperplane*]

So its okay to just allow it to be recognized as an actual word? It was once legal to keep slaves. Its now banned, but in some areas of the world it still exists. Should we have just kept slavery since people are going to do it anyway or find new ways to do it?

what the hell does that even mean? It's already regarded as profanity.

[BamBamBoogie]

i think it's just a word...
even african americans use it with eachother as a sign of friendship or used as a pronoun to represent a guy (sometimes grl)
even tho it should no longer be thought of as a racist word towards blacks it still does. But if the english language does rid of it, they have to rid of "cracker" "s**c" and any other racial slur

I agree that the other words should be banned. I dont think blacks should call each other the "n" word either. Many say its a word for friendship. Yea? Well let's see Caucasion or any other race call an african-american the "n" word. I guarantee they will feel offended and react very unfriendly. The same thing goes for "cracker" and any other offensive racial words. If you want a word to call each other as friends, make a new one, don't just try to change a previously offensive word to a friendly word. If that was the case we might as well call each other assholes to be friendly.

no it should not be banned. we don't ban other words, why ban it. besides it's not going to stop anyone from saying it.....

Murder is banned. People still do it. Should we make that okay just because people keep doing it?

what the hell does that even mean? It's already regarded as profanity.

Actually, its still regarded as a word. Research may come in handy for this topic.

This post has been edited by paperplane: Nov 12 2008, 04:20 PM

Reason for edit: posts merged- please do not triple post

[only-tuesdays]

Your argument is reaching a bit far. There is a huge difference between banning a word, and keeping murder illegal. While it isn't a word I like, there is no reason to "ban" it. Since when did we start censoring the language? It has a completely different meaning today, than it did years ago when it was used as a racial slur. People still use it in that context, but it's just a word.

[brooklyneast05]

Murder is banned. People still do it. Should we make that okay just because people keep doing it?

murder physically hurts someone. people walking around saying the nword doesn't physically hurt someone. that was the dumbest thing i have heard on here in a long time. why the hell do you think murder is anything like saying a word? wtf? do you want to arrest people for saying a word? how are you going to "ban" it?

[Tung]

Ever heard of freedom of speech?

[*paperplane*]

Actually, its still regarded as a word. Research may come in handy for this topic.

No kidding. It is a word, and it will not ever cease to be a word, whether it is "banned" or not.

[Saikou]

"I disagree with what you say, but i defend to the death your right to say it".
It would be pointless to ban a word,you cant stop people from saying it in private.
Freedom of speech imo.

[BamBamBoogie]

Everyone continues to say "its just a word." If it is just a word, then why can't anyone use it at anytime without anyone feeling umcomfortable. Maybe I shouldn't have said banned because you're right a word can't be banned. However, it should be removed from the English language. Freedom of speech is indeed important and people should be allowed to say what they want. However, if we continue to regard it as an actual word, we are saying that it is okay for us to use such an offensive term. People say it doesn't mean the same thing. That's bull. It may not in certain contexts, but as I said earlier everyone can't use it, therefore proving that is offensive and should not be regarded as an actual word.

[BamBamBoogie]

murder physically hurts someone. people walking around saying the nword doesn't physically hurt someone. that was the dumbest thing i have heard on here in a long time. why the hell do you think murder is anything like saying a word? wtf? do you want to arrest people for saying a word? how are you going to "ban" it?

Of course saying a word isnt like murder. However, it was an example to prove my point. Im not saying make a law to not say the word, Im saying not to regard it as an actual word.

[Tung]

Nobody is saying it's okay to use an offensive term. The fact is, you can't ban a word. People are going to still stay it regardless.

I feel like this Debate topic is going in circles.

Edit : Please stop double posting. if you like to add something to say, please edit your post.

[brooklyneast05]

Everyone continues to say "its just a word." If it is just a word, then why can't anyone use it at anytime without anyone feeling umcomfortable. Maybe I shouldn't have said banned because you're right a word can't be banned. However, it should be removed from the English language. Freedom of speech is indeed important and people should be allowed to say what they want. However, if we continue to regard it as an actual word, we are saying that it is okay for us to use such an offensive term. People say it doesn't mean the same thing. That's bull. It may not in certain contexts, but as I said earlier everyone can't use it, therefore proving that is offensive and should not be regarded as an actual word.

you can't take a word and make it not a word anymore, that makes no sense. it's a word, it's been a word, and it will always be a word. words don't have to be good to be words. words can be offensive and still be words. the intent or meaning of a word doesn't change the fact that...it's a word.

we regard all words as words...because they are.

[*paperplane*]

You cannot remove a word from the English language. That makes no f*cking sense. You certainly can't punish people for saying something that's not "regarded as a word." Making a big deal out of this will only prolong the inherent offensive meaning of the term.

[batman]

Many were manipulated into thinking that slavery was justified by the Bible, which was written in English.

And here I was, thinking that the Bible was originally written in Hebrew. -_-

Words are just words, whether they're derogatory or not. People choose not to say words because of the history behind them and that's perfectly fine. You can't just erase a word like it never existed. You can't effectively ban a word and expect people to comply. What you CAN do is try to impress upon others that using words in a way to hurt others is a bitchass thing to do.

While we're at this whole banning of words issue, you might as well fight to ban all the other words in the English language that might be marked as offensive.

[BamBamBoogie]

I don't think everyone is paying attention. Of course you can't punish someone for saying a word. My POINT IS (please read clearly) that the word should not be regarded as a ACTUAL word. When I say actual I mean FORMAL. By formal I mean allowing it to be printed in the dictionary. AINT is not a formaal word and therefore is not listed in the dictionary. However, it is still a word because it is made of letters. Of course the nword will always be a word, but it shouldn't be part of the FORMAL ENGLISH LANGUAGE. I also believe that any other offensive racial terms should not be regarded as english either. Maybe slang, but not english. I really hope that everyone reads this correctly because it seems as though a lot of people here are close-minded and are not understanding my point clearly.

[BamBamBoogie]

And here I was, thinking that the Bible was originally written in Hebrew. -_-

Words are just words, whether they're derogatory or not. People choose not to say words because of the history behind them and that's perfectly fine. You can't just erase a word like it never existed. You can't effectively ban a word and expect people to comply. What you CAN do is try to impress upon others that using words in a way to hurt others is a bitchass thing to do.

While we're at this whole banning of words issue, you might as well fight to ban all the other words in the English language that might be marked as offensive.

Tell me, does the average american use a Hebrew bible? I don't think so. Nor do I think slaveowners had Hebrew bibles. Either way it doesnt matter because slaves couldn't read either one

[Saikou]

oh,now i understand a little better what you were trying to say.
The N word has pretty much left a stain on the english language,that cant just be erased.Trying to just make it disappear,would be like erasing History;...sort of like covering up what things happened because of it...be it tragedy or change.<--- Im not really good at explaining things,but maybe somebody will get what im getting at,lol.(Random:I did read about the whole Bible thing ,today actually >_>)

[batman]

Just because people don't get your point, doesn't make them close-minded. It makes you really bad at communicating and/or getting your point across.

And now that I get your point, I still disagree. If by "N-word" you mean n****er, then fyi, it is already considered slang. If by "N-word" you mean negro, I feel like the word has been a part of our history for so long and, though it is considered an archaic ethnic slur now, still belongs in our dictionary. Not every word in the dictionary sheds a positive light on everything and just because you happen to disagree with the usage of this word doesn't mean it should be taken out.

[*paperplane*]

I don't think everyone is paying attention. Of course you can't punish someone for saying a word. My POINT IS (please read clearly) that the word should not be regarded as a ACTUAL word. When I say actual I mean FORMAL. By formal I mean allowing it to be printed in the dictionary. AINT is not a formaal word and therefore is not listed in the dictionary. However, it is still a word because it is made of letters. Of course the nword will always be a word, but it shouldn't be part of the FORMAL ENGLISH LANGUAGE. I also believe that any other offensive racial terms should not be regarded as english either. Maybe slang, but not english. I really hope that everyone reads this correctly because it seems as though a lot of people here are close-minded and are not understanding my point clearly.

It's not about closed-mindedness, it's a matter of you conveying your point horribly. You'd rather accuse everyone of not thinking or doing sufficient research, rather than make an effort to make yourself clear.

Ain't is not in the dictionary because it's a contraction, and not even a proper one at that. I don't think there are any contractions in the dictionary (I don't have a real dictionary so I can't check, but I assume). Regardless, I don't know what make you think disregarding n****er as a word would change its meaning or usage at all. Pretending [potentially] offensive words don't exist does not make them less [potentially] offensive.

[only-tuesdays]

I don't think everyone is paying attention. Of course you can't punish someone for saying a word. My POINT IS (please read clearly) that the word should not be regarded as a ACTUAL word. When I say actual I mean FORMAL. By formal I mean allowing it to be printed in the dictionary. AINT is not a formaal word and therefore is not listed in the dictionary. However, it is still a word because it is made of letters. Of course the nword will always be a word, but it shouldn't be part of the FORMAL ENGLISH LANGUAGE. I also believe that any other offensive racial terms should not be regarded as english either. Maybe slang, but not english. I really hope that everyone reads this correctly because it seems as though a lot of people here are close-minded and are not understanding my point clearly.

Just because it has a negative connotation doesn't mean it shouldn't be regarded as english. This whole "debate" is silly.

Pitt Bulls have a negative stigma. Therefore, they shouldn't be considered a breed or even type of dog. They are an animal, and they are canine, but that is where it ends.

See my point?

[BamBamBoogie]

Hmm...

well it seems as though Im not proving my point effectively so Im just gonna say agree to disagree. I just feel as though we shouldnt continue to justify racial terms as words because they've been around for a while. The berlin wall was around for a while but it got torn down. The history is still there, of course you cant erase it, but efforts were made to ease the pain of the harm caused by it. It would be more comforting for an individual to open a dictionary without seeing words such as "cracker" and "n****er" or "Negro" or whatever.

I do want to say that you all made very good points and I appreciate the participation in this debate. I just wish that more of you could understand my points better.

[*paperplane*]

But taking down a physical object is completely different from getting rid of a word.

[BamBamBoogie]

But taking down a physical object is completely different from getting rid of a word.

Not neccessarily. They both have some type of symbolic meaning. Keeping these words are like keeping a dog that bit your left butt cheek off lol. They both hurt whether its physical, emotional, or mental, it hurts. Removing the reminder is one step towards soothing some of that pain.

[dosomethin888]

nope. its a word and we have freedom to say it.

[Joss-eh-lime]

first, i dont think its possible to BAN a word.
second, i dont like the word nor do i use it, but it is what some people use to express a thought or feeling so who am i to tell them they can't say it.

[BamBamBoogie]

nope. its a word and we have freedom to say it.

Did you even read the forum?

[*paperplane*]

Not neccessarily. They both have some type of symbolic meaning. Keeping these words are like keeping a dog that bit your left butt cheek off lol. They both hurt whether its physical, emotional, or mental, it hurts. Removing the reminder is one step towards soothing some of that pain.

But the difference is that you cannot remove a word. Removing a word from the dictionary won't remove it from the vernacular. The Berlin Wall did have a symbolic meaning, but it wasn't just a symbolic meaning. It had a physical presence, that had a very direct effect on people's lives.

[mipadi]

This sounds a lot like the "Newspeak" described in 1984. For those not familiar, the fictional government in 1984 removed words from the English language in an attempt to shape and forbid thoughts. In essence, you can't think and express something if you have no words to do so. And this is very true: studies of language have shown that people have different ideas based on their native language. For example, there's a tribe in the Amazon that doesn't have any words for numbers; in the 1800s, Christian missionaries tried to teach these people how to count, but they found it was impossible to teach the tribespeople how to count beyond 2 or 3, because they had no words for doing so in their native tongue.

But I think racial slurs are so entrenched in our language that there's no way to remove them, even if they aren't recognized as an actual word. So I'm against banning the word "n****er" from English because (a) I don't agree with censorship to begin with, and (b) it wouldn't work anyway.

[synatribe]

the people who use the nword just look like idiots and the ones who dont use it are normal. If the nword gets "banned" then so should the f, s, etc words. I dont think it has the same impact as a derogatory term anymore because people who once fell victim to that word are using it like nothing? :]

[coconutter]

there is no word that can be "banned" words are ideas.

you can't take ideas from people, at the moment..

[Joss-eh-lime]

aberisk: its not true that the people currently using the n word were once victim of it.. if everyone today knew how awful it felt to be called that on the daily, this word would not be as common a slang term.

[coconutter]

^its not true that the people currently using the n word were once victim of it.. if everyone today knew how awful it felt to be called that on the daily, this word would not be as common a slang term.

woahhh...huh?

i was just saying it's impossible to ban ideas (words are ideas), or rid of ideas unless the entire society has become extinct or we get some crazy technology

i truly doubt you're maliciously called n****er every day

if you are, I'd suggest moving

[Harp]

No matter what, you really can't stop someone from saying n****er. It shouldn't be removed from the English language, and the word doesn't always mean 'a black person'. I know someone, who is 100% NOT racist, and uses the word 'n****er' to describe a stupid person, no someone of any set race.

That's like wanting to ban CHink. CHink wasn't originally used to describe a person of chinese decent. It was used as another word for money, or a narrow opening.

Also, you've been asked not to double/triple post several times. I think it might be best not to do that again :D

[AyeVickaye]

no it should not be banned. we don't ban other words, why ban it. besides it's not going to stop anyone from saying it.....

True dat and what RCKstarh said.

[Tomates]

First of all how do you ban a word, i mean if you say it whats going to happen, so what if it gets banned people will probably just say it anyways and besides are we going to hire vocab police to make sure we dont say it or get punished if we do? Thats just ridiculous.

Face it, people are going to say it either offensivly or jokinly.

[*paperplane*]

Do try reading the thread, people. It's only on the second page.

[Tomates]

people are reading it, but there really isnt much to read of it except for everyones input. Afterall she posted by saying how people should think before saying it which really doesnt say much to me.

[Joss-eh-lime]

woahhh...huh?

i was just saying it's impossible to ban ideas (words are ideas), or rid of ideas unless the entire society has become extinct or we get some crazy technology

i truly doubt you're maliciously called n****er every day

if you are, I'd suggest moving

oops sorry i meant that for the post above you...

[firechild]

You can't ban a word.

[Harp]

You can't ban a word.

That's about as simple as it can be put.

[sixfive]

You can't ban a word.

Sure you can. Go shout bomb in an airport.

[dosomethin888]

Did you even read the forum?

Ya I did.

[fameONE]

@ this topic.

Please stop victimizing Black people. It's not a good look.

[SuckDickNSaveLiv...]

@ this topic.

Please stop victimizing Black people. It's not a good look.

Thought I was the only one who was snickering while reading this, now I don't feel so bad.

[BamBamBoogie]

first, i dont think its possible to BAN a word.
second, i dont like the word nor do i use it, but it is what some people use to express a thought or feeling so who am i to tell them they can't say it.

the people who use the nword just look like idiots and the ones who dont use it are normal. If the nword gets "banned" then so should the f, s, etc words. I dont think it has the same impact as a derogatory term anymore because people who once fell victim to that word are using it like nothing? :]

there is no word that can be "banned" words are ideas.

you can't take ideas from people, at the moment..

First of all how do you ban a word, i mean if you say it whats going to happen, so what if it gets banned people will probably just say it anyways and besides are we going to hire vocab police to make sure we dont say it or get punished if we do? Thats just ridiculous.

Face it, people are going to say it either offensivly or jokinly.

people are reading it, but there really isnt much to read of it except for everyones input. Afterall she posted by saying how people should think before saying it which really doesnt say much to me.

You can't ban a word.

If one of your quotes is here, it is because your comments are pointless simply because they have already been brought up before. If you didn't read, please read. And if you have read it then that shows a lack of reading comprehension skills on your behalf if you did claim to have read previous remarks but still made points that have already been addressed.

No matter what, you really can't stop someone from saying n****er. It shouldn't be removed from the English language, and the word doesn't always mean 'a black person'. I know someone, who is 100% NOT racist, and uses the word 'n****er' to describe a stupid person, no someone of any set race.


Also, you've been asked not to double/triple post several times. I think it might be best not to do that again :D

Your first paragraph to me seemed a bit ignorant, and I do not mean to be at all offensive. If you know the definition of ignorant you'll understand how I don't mean to offend you. But anyway, I say that because anyone can change the connotation of a word. However, that does not change the denotation of the word which may be offensive or mean something completely different from what you may have intended. For example, people say cool all the time. The denotation is slightly colder than warm (my guess), while the connotation in a statement 'she's cool' is different. This doesn't change the fact that cool still means slightly colder thant warm, and this may cause someone who doesn't know what your connotation of the word cool is to think that you are crazy for calling someone slightly colder than warm. The same thing for the "N" word or any other offensive racial term. I can call a ball a n****er or any other offensive term. This doesn't mean that the definition is ball now. That is just a personal connotation of the word, and therefore cannot be considered valid definition.

Also, I was unaware of what double posting was because I'm new to the forums. But, i talked to an staff member and everything's worked out. I know how to use multiple quotes.

And for the record, I am NOT victimizing African-Americans. I am myself an black male who is completely non-racist. I believe that all offensive racial terms should be done away with to ensure comfortability of all people. I am also proud to say that I am a proud member of the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) which was actually started after the holocaust to prevent anti-semitism, racism, discrimination, etc. That is a reason why I am passionate about this topic.



The official Anti-Defamation League Website

[Tomates]

If one of your quotes is here, it is because your comments are pointless simply because they have already been brought up before. If you didn't read, please read. And if you have read it then that shows a lack of reading comprehension skills on your behalf if you did claim to have read previous remarks but still made points that have already been addressed.

They have probably been brought up before then for a reason stating that this whole topic is just ridiculous. What is there to f*cking read? All the title says is "should the N word be banned" and you just added "people should think before they talk" We have simply just stated our opinion on this. Theres not much to your post to agree about at all. I mean what do you expect? did you expect that you would have people saying "yeah i agree! lets riot about it and get our word out!!!" Atleast post a reason or something, your topic and replies are so incredibly petty that it makes me want to hurt a small child.

[brooklyneast05]

thing is, it's just pointless is what everyone is getting at. it doesn't change anything and it isn't going to make people stop saying it. you can't stop people from saying what they want to say, and i don't think anyone should try in the first place.

i wasn't raised in a household that embraced that word. i wasn't ever allowed to say any variation of it. i don't say it hardly ever, if ever. i don't call my friends that, ect. i personally think it is ridiculous...but i don't care if other people want to say it. that's their choice and i don't think they need to be censored. at the end of the day it can't be erased, or taken back, or stopped so i don't see any need in leading a crusade against a word that's not going to matter. there are way better things to fight for than the removal of a word from the dictionary.

i know people see is as some kind of symbolic gesture or something to remove it but it's not practical at all and doesn't make sense. i've been called a n****er numerous times and it would have the same effect on me whether or not it's considered a word or not...it'll still mean the same thing and people will still call me that regardless of if it's in the dictionary.

[BamBamBoogie]

They have probably been brought up before then for a reason stating that this whole topic is just ridiculous. What is there to f*cking read? All the title says is "should the N word be banned" and you just added "people should think before they talk" We have simply just stated our opinion on this. Theres not much to your post to agree about at all. I mean what do you expect? did you expect that you would have people saying "yeah i agree! lets riot about it and get our word out!!!" Atleast post a reason or something, your topic and replies are so incredibly petty that it makes me want to hurt a small child.

I believe you are referring to my first post, and that is not what I am talking about. I meant read the other comments that have been made because they have already been addressed.

thing is, it's just pointless is what everyone is getting at. it doesn't change anything and it isn't going to make people stop saying it. you can't stop people from saying what they want to say, and i don't think anyone should try in the first place.

i wasn't raised in a household that embraced that word. i wasn't ever allowed to say any variation of it. i don't say it hardly ever, if ever. i don't call my friends that, ect. i personally think it is ridiculous...but i don't care if other people want to say it. that's their choice and i don't think they need to be censored. at the end of the day it can't be erased, or taken back, or stopped so i don't see any need in leading a crusade against a word that's not going to matter. there are way better things to fight for than the removal of a word from the dictionary.


i know people see is as some kind of symbolic gesture or something to remove it but it's not practical at all and doesn't make sense. i've been called a n****er numerous times and it would have the same effect on me whether or not it's considered a word or not...it'll still mean the same thing and people will still call me that regardless of if it's in the dictionary.

I think you have made a great point. However, it is that exact mentality that its not important enough to fight for, that leads fuels inequal rights. For example, did you know that for years after Dr. King's "I have a dream" speech, there was no memorial or plaque to indicate where he stood while giving that speech? Many thought "so what? no big deal." It took a group of school kids to fight for some type of acknowledgement. Either way the speech happened, plaque or not. But it still means something to have a recognition of it. Another example is at George Washington's house. For years there was not even a leaf to honor the burial site of many slaves who weren't even all african-american. Some thought "so what? big deal." Well someone who was passionate about it worked hard to have a memorial for the burial site of a number of people who died, and fyi, there is still not an exact amount of bodies found there, although 100 is the number normally used.

My point is, despite how big or small something is, if you believe something needs to be changed, you should work 5x as hard to make that change. Or at least support efforts for change, despite what differing opinions may say.

[brooklyneast05]

I think you have made a great point. However, it is that exact mentality that its not important enough to fight for, that leads fuels inequal rights. For example, did you know that for years after Dr. King's "I have a dream" speech, there was no memorial or plaque to indicate where he stood while giving that speech? Many thought "so what? no big deal." It took a group of school kids to fight for some type of acknowledgement. Either way the speech happened, plaque or not. But it still means something to have a recognition of it.

ummm, i didn't say it's not important, i said it doesn't change anything. i've been to where King made his dream speech and i don't recall nor do i care if there was a plaque there or not. i don't think that really adds anything personally, it's not like it wasn't acknowledged until there was a plaque there...we've always acknowledged it. i don't think putting a plaque there changed anything. i'd like to see some sources on this big fight that it took to put a plaque up though.

Another example is at George Washington's house. For years there was not even a leaf to honor the burial site of many slaves who weren't even all african-american. Some thought "so what? big deal." Well someone who was passionate about it worked hard to have a memorial for the burial site of a number of people who died,

i've been to Mt.Vernon, Monticello, ect. ummm i guess it's good they have something to honor the burial site now. it's not like they haven't honored it anyway. i don't get how this relates to a word really. i've never been on a tour to one of these places where the guide hasn't talked exclusively about slaves, slave quarters, slave burial, ect. i guess i don't really see the point here. it wasn't acknowledged at one point, but ya know, lots old graves aren't acknowledged...

fyi, there is still not an exact amount of bodies found there, although 100 is the number normally used.

thanks for the fyi, but i've already said i've actually been to these places and seen it so you don't have to worry about informing me that much!

My point is, despite how big or small something is, if you believe something needs to be changed, you should work 5x as hard to make that change. Or at least support efforts for change, despite what differing opinions may say.

look it's not going to be changed by taking it out of the dictionary or not calling it a word. that's what everyone is getting at. we're talking about a word, not a plaque that you can just make and stick somewhere and that's that. the only way to change this is for people to stop saying it, which they will have to do on their own, because you can't force away a word. so you can say it's not a word and then guess what...nothing will have changed and you won't see or hear it any less than you did before you all the sudden claimed it wasn't a word anymore. i just don't see how you're going to feel any better about it not being a word when it's still be said all the time.

you're examples don't mean that much in my opinion because you're talking about putting a physical object somewhere which isn't anything like a word which is an idea.

[BamBamBoogie]

ummm, i didn't say it's not important, i said it doesn't change anything. i've been to where King made his dream speech and i don't recall nor do i care if there was a plaque there or not. i don't think that really adds anything personally, it's not like it wasn't acknowledged until there was a plaque there...we've always acknowledged it. i don't think putting a plaque there changed anything. i'd like to see some sources on this big fight that it took to put a plaque up though.

i've been to Mt.Vernon, Monticello, ect. ummm i guess it's good they have something to honor the burial site now. it's not like they haven't honored it anyway. i don't get how this relates to a word really. i've never been on a tour to one of these places where the guide hasn't talked exclusively about slaves, slave quarters, slave burial, ect. i guess i don't really see the point here. it wasn't acknowledged at one point, but ya know, lots old graves aren't acknowledged...
thanks for the fyi, but i've already said i've actually been to these places and seen it so you don't have to worry about informing me that much!
look it's not going to be changed by taking it out of the dictionary or not calling it a word. that's what everyone is getting at. we're talking about a word, not a plaque that you can just make and stick somewhere and that's that. the only way to change this is for people to stop saying it, which they will have to do on their own, because you can't force away a word. so you can say it's not a word and then guess what...nothing will have changed and you won't see or hear it any less than you did before you all the sudden claimed it wasn't a word anymore. i just don't see how you're going to feel any better about it not being a word when it's still be said all the time.

you're examples don't mean that much in my opinion because you're talking about putting a physical object somewhere which isn't anything like a word which is an idea.

i disagree. I only gave physical examples because there has never been a "word thing." But, I still believe that it will change something. By us continuing to print the word in dictionaries and accepting it as proper, we are basically saying that it is okay for it to be used. People will still use it if they want to of course, but we can at least show a form of disapproval of the word. Otherwise we're just agreeing with the usage of it.

[coconutter]

i disagree. I only gave physical examples because there has never been a "word thing." But, I still believe that it will change something. By us continuing to print the word in dictionaries and accepting it as proper, we are basically saying that it is okay for it to be used. People will still use it if they want to of course, but we can at least show a form of disapproval of the word. Otherwise we're just agreeing with the usage of it.

You can't automatically agree with the usage of the word if it's printed, and printing does not provoke people to use it. Not only that, it's a historical word, it belongs in dictionaries. Printing words does not provoke people you use them maliciously, that's up to the people themselves. Leave it alone, words are just words, there are none that are good or bad, it's the context they're used in that can be deemed good or bad

[BamBamBoogie]

You can't automatically agree with the usage of the word if it's printed, and printing does not provoke people to use it. Not only that, it's a historical word, it belongs in dictionaries. Printing words does not provoke people you use them maliciously, that's up to the people themselves. Leave it alone, words are just words, there are none that are good or bad, it's the context they're used in that can be deemed good or bad

I think you've made the best argument so far. However, the last part is incorrect because there is no good way to use the "N" word.


I would like for everyone who says keep the word give a good reason for it to be kept. Like how would it be beneficial if it is kept?

[Tramatize]

n****er means shiftless and lazy.
Its actually not a racist word, people just happen to use it in racist ways, and if we ban it, people won't care, they'll say it anyway.
Its just a word. Plus, if we ban n****er we'll have to ban a bunch of other racist words, like porch monkey, and stuff. Then gays will want f****t banned, and "small people" will want midget banned, and Spanish/Mexicans etc, will want Spick[sp?] banned.

[Joss-eh-lime]

If one of your quotes is here, it is because your comments are pointless simply because they have already been brought up before. If you didn't read, please read. And if you have read it then that shows a lack of reading comprehension skills on your behalf if you did claim to have read previous remarks but still made points that have already been addressed.

you're cool for doing that. thanks.

most of us answered what the topic asked, and even more, most went into a discussion about it, so do not try and tell us we have a lack of reading comprehension or whatever else you are saying.

[BamBamBoogie]

you're cool for doing that. thanks.

most of us answered what the topic asked, and even more, most went into a discussion about it, so do not try and tell us we have a lack of reading comprehension or whatever else you are saying.

Umm... that's not tru for majority of them ad even if you did discuss it, it was already discussed previously and the points were settled. So again, if you read where it was settled, then you didn't comprehend effectively. Otherwise, you wouldn't restate resolved arguments.

n****er means shiftless and lazy.
Its actually not a racist word, people just happen to use it in racist ways, and if we ban it, people won't care, they'll say it anyway.
Its just a word. Plus, if we ban n****er we'll have to ban a bunch of other racist words, like porch monkey, and stuff. Then gays will want f****t banned, and "small people" will want midget banned, and Spanish/Mexicans etc, will want Spick[sp?] banned.

Thanks for defining it for us. I think that'll help a lot now. However, that is a new definition. But, Im pretty sure that isn't what it meant in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

However, Please read comments before posting. Many of us have addressed the whole "its just a word and if you ban it you gotta ban other words as well" thing . Just read a little so you don't sound ignorant okay?

[Tramatize]

Thanks for defining it for us. I think that'll help a lot now. However, that is a new definition. But, Im pretty sure that isn't what it meant in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

However, Please read comments before posting. Many of us have addressed the whole "its just a word and if you ban it you gotta ban other words as well" thing . Just read a little so you don't sound ignorant okay?

Alright smartass, but that is the definition, so people can and more than likely do use it racially, but that does not make it a racist word, therefore it shouldn't be banned. And if we banned it, how would African Americans refer to there friends?

Oh and thanks maybe later you can teach me how to be ignorant.
You can't tell people what to do, so stfu.

Umm... that's not tru for majority of them ad even if you did discuss it, it was already discussed previously and the points were settled. So again, if you read where it was settled, then you didn't comprehend effectively. Otherwise, you wouldn't restate resolved arguments.

The majority DID answer the question though, and she said most of us answered it OR (thats the main word) went into discussion about it. I know everyone answered it, even if they didn't say "Yes" or "No" they still said enough to let you know if they think it should or not.

[Tomates]

I believe you are referring to my first post, and that is not what I am talking about. I meant read the other comments that have been made because they have already been addressed.

Im aware thats not what your initially talking about. Though if you wanted to make a point of something you should have said more, it really just seems like your looking for people to just agree with you and call the others useless because they dont.

[Amaranthus]

I don't think everyone is paying attention. Of course you can't punish someone for saying a word. My POINT IS (please read clearly) that the word should not be regarded as a ACTUAL word. When I say actual I mean FORMAL. By formal I mean allowing it to be printed in the dictionary. AINT is not a formaal word and therefore is not listed in the dictionary. However, it is still a word because it is made of letters. Of course the nword will always be a word, but it shouldn't be part of the FORMAL ENGLISH LANGUAGE. I also believe that any other offensive racial terms should not be regarded as english either. Maybe slang, but not english. I really hope that everyone reads this correctly because it seems as though a lot of people here are close-minded and are not understanding my point clearly.

Who the f*ck uses n****er in formal literature/context?
Aside from the dictionary, of course.

[Joss-eh-lime]

hey news flash ain't is in the dictionary. f*ck is in the dictionary. and n****er is in the dictionary.

words are words. its the feeling/idea behind those certain words that can not be banned.
sure, it might be beneficial to an english lover to ban every word that is considered slang or informal, and just leave "formal" words, but that would not be a complete representation of the words we use in today's english language.

[MY BAD if someone already said that.]

[Tomates]

I would like for everyone who says keep the word give a good reason for it to be kept. Like how would it be beneficial if it is kept?

So you want a good reason? Freedom of Speech

[Blyat]

definetly freedom of speech
and some may say this also take the "infringe on someone's happiness"
so yeah i DONT think it should be banned if you say it and someone happens to be offended all you can say is sorry

besides if it's banned someone will make up a new word

[fameONE]

So you want a good reason? Freedom of Speech

Trump card.

[coconutter]

I think you've made the best argument so far. However, the last part is incorrect because there is no good way to use the "N" word.
I would like for everyone who says keep the word give a good reason for it to be kept. Like how would it be beneficial if it is kept?

It could be used when trying to sympathize with slaves. Such as "these people were ridiculed and called niggers, which was sad". That's not bad, it's a historical word, people used it commonly and it used to not be an insult, and it still isn't an "insult", it's a unique word actually. Calling someone a n****er, what are you really calling them? A black person? Or a certain type of black person? If it's a certain type of black person, i could see why people wouldn't want to be put in that category, but if it's just a black person, why does it matter? I'd hope people are content with the race they are.

[karmakiller]

If you were to ban the "n" word, you would have to ban all the other words that have negative connotation. A word doesn't create racism anymore than a plaque causes someone to have an emotional attachment to a location that is important to history. Sure, the tone and delivery of the word implies if the person saying it is saying it to harmful and hurtful. (I, personally, don't think there is any positive way to use the word.)

Why should we not be censored? In Nazi Germany Hitler burned books and dictated what civilians could and could not say. They were locked off from progressing as a nation. If the government starts to ban words, they are no better. I think that we need to learn how to progress and move forward. You should spend more of your time working to stop hate crimes than ban a word. If the word is taken away, the hate is still there. It gets us nowhere.

[applejaxkz]

I hate when people use the word "n****er." It makes them sound ignorant.

[coconutter]

huh? ^

[SuckDickNSaveLiv...]

I don't see why they should ban it anyway. It makes my day to see two whites calling each other nigger.

[BamBamBoogie]

Freedom of speech won't be affected by removing the word from the language. They can still say it if the want. It just wont be seen as an actual word.

Bottom line is, taking the word out would be more beneficial than keeping it. No one still has not gave a good reason for it to stay and it should therefore be given the boot.

[karmakiller]

lol, what? You want to go through all the trouble of banning a word so that people can still use it. That defeats the purpose of a ban.

[BamBamBoogie]

lol, what? You want to go through all the trouble of banning a word so that people can still use it. That defeats the purpose of a ban.

It's obvious that you can't stop people from saying a word, as many others have said before. But by declaring the "N" word as not a word, in my opinion there is a sort of symbolic meaning about the process. It kinda shows that America is putting thise kinds of things behind us and unity is closer.

Also I think someone said that if the "N" word is banned black people will have nothing to call their friends-WTF?

[RCKstarh]

sad that this is the way they define the word "n****er"

1. Slang: Extremely Disparaging and Offensive. a. a black person.
b. a member of any dark-skinned people.

2. Slang: Extremely Disparaging and Offensive. a person of any race or origin regarded as contemptible, inferior, ignorant, etc.
3. a victim of prejudice similar to that suffered by blacks; a person who is economically, politically, or socially disenfranchised


^actually looked this up. this word was once a word that defined lazy and ignorant people..... upsetting that this word now denies a "black" person. if anything, this definition should be changed back to its original meaning instead of a way to deifine a "black person"

[sixfive]

nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger

No offense.

[only-tuesdays]

No one still has not gave a good reason for it to stay and it should therefore be given the boot.

You haven't given a good reason for it to go. Your arguments are silly and far fetched.

[BamBamBoogie]

You haven't given a good reason for it to go. Your arguments are silly and far fetched.

Actually I have. The word should go simply because it is offensive and there is no good reason to keep it. By that I mean it will not be beneficial if kept. However, if it is gone, it will have a symbolic meaning to many, including races other than black.

[BamBamBoogie]

nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger nigger

No offense.

This just shows ignorance. Anyone agree?

[brooklyneast05]

no

[sixfive]

This just shows ignorance. Anyone agree?

Nah. This cracker gets soggy when he swims and thinks black people are some of the most enjoyable people to hang out with.

Speaking of which, JC, we should meet up when I'm in NYC this winter break.

[Tomates]

Freedom of speech won't be affected by removing the word from the language. They can still say it if the want. It just wont be seen as an actual word.

Bottom line is, taking the word out would be more beneficial than keeping it. No one still has not gave a good reason for it to stay and it should therefore be given the boot.

That didnt make much sense at all. To me what your saying is that they can still use it even though you want to ban it...So then whats the point of banning the word if people can still use it? And people will still see it as a actual word since they have said it for years now. Theres nothing beneficial about taking the word out if people are still going to use it.

This whole thing is ignorant, your statements are ridiculous

[BamBamBoogie]

That didnt make much sense at all. To me what your saying is that they can still use it even though you want to ban it...So then whats the point of banning the word if people can still use it? And people will still see it as a actual word since they have said it for years now. Theres nothing beneficial about taking the word out if people are still going to use it.

This whole thing is ignorant, your statements are ridiculous

Are you clear on what ignorant means? Doesn't sound like it because if you did you would see that this isn't ignorant.

Did you even read my quote?

It's obvious that you can't stop people from saying a word, as many others have said before. But by declaring the "N" word as not a word, in my opinion there is a sort of symbolic meaning about the process. It kinda shows that America is putting thise kinds of things behind us and unity is closer.

[Tomates]

Are you clear on what ignorant means? Doesn't sound like it because if you did you would see that this isn't ignorant.

Did you even read my quote?

Yes im clear on what it means or else i wouldnt have said it.

[BamBamBoogie]

Yes im clear on what it means or else i wouldnt have said it.

I see...

Well maybe you aren't seeing my point clearly and I've tried many times to make it clearer. It doesn't get any clearer than: (1) It will have a symbolic meaning, (2)It does no good to keep it.

[Tomates]

I see...

Well maybe you aren't seeing my point clearly and I've tried many times to make it clearer. It doesn't get any clearer than: (1) It will have a symbolic meaning, (2)It does no good to keep it.

I am seeing your point and im saying that its petty.
How clear do I have to make it now?

[BamBamBoogie]

I am seeing your point and im saying that its petty.
How clear do I have to make it now?

Well petty means to not be important. So are you saying that this isn't important?

Now maybe your whole reason for not seeing it as important is because you have no idea where I am coming from with this topic, or maybe the word doesn't affect you. I have many family members who have been verbally abused with many words such as this one. We consider it to be offensive because we are on the recieving end of it. However, many people see it as not so offensive because it is a word that blacks have been called by for years, so nothing should change now. I disagree and therefore believe that we should get rid of the word to show that change can and should happen and we should not accept things as they currently are. As I said before, there is absolutely no good reason for keeping this word.

[Tung]

Wow, just read the last two pages. This is stupid.

[Amaranthus]

Well petty means to not be important. So are you saying that this isn't important?

Now maybe your whole reason for not seeing it as important is because you have no idea where I am coming from with this topic, or maybe the word doesn't affect you. I have many family members who have been verbally abused with many words such as this one. We consider it to be offensive because we are on the recieving end of it. However, many people see it as not so offensive because it is a word that blacks have been called by for years, so nothing should change now. I disagree and therefore believe that we should get rid of the word to show that change can and should happen and we should not accept things as they currently are. As I said before, there is absolutely no good reason for keeping this word.

WTF You make no f*cking sense, no matter how you word your opinion,
Also , you're quite redundant.

"Yeah, because n****er is ignorance and, um, yeah it's symbolic of unity and n****er is ignorant, which means petty, which is what ignorant is, which if you haven't noticed is symbolic of unity."

[BamBamBoogie]

Wow, just read the last two pages. This is stupid.

You're entitled to your opinion.

WTF You make no f*cking sense, no matter how you word your opinion,
Also , you're quite redundant.

"Yeah, because n****er is ignorance and, um, yeah it's symbolic of unity and n****er is ignorant, which means petty, which is what ignorant is, which if you haven't noticed is symbolic of unity."

Hmm... I don't recall saying that. Can you read?

[Tomates]

Well petty means to not be important. So are you saying that this isn't important?

Now maybe your whole reason for not seeing it as important is because you have no idea where I am coming from with this topic, or maybe the word doesn't affect you. I have many family members who have been verbally abused with many words such as this one. We consider it to be offensive because we are on the recieving end of it. However, many people see it as not so offensive because it is a word that blacks have been called by for years, so nothing should change now. I disagree and therefore believe that we should get rid of the word to show that change can and should happen and we should not accept things as they currently are. As I said before, there is absolutely no good reason for keeping this word.

I know where your coming from and i know its a very insulting word. Your responses dont make sense at all what so ever.
Like this post

Freedom of speech won't be affected by removing the word from the language. They can still say it if the want. It just wont be seen as an actual word.

Please explain how that makes any sense. It doesnt at all and all of your responses have almost been like that which means you dont know how to fight your own argument or your not really understanding/reading what others are trying to say.

Like i said above before, im aware its insulting but your going to have to face it, people are still going to say the word and abuse it even if its banned and if "it wont be seen as an actual word" People will still know what it means which wont make anything different.

Wow, just read the last two pages. This is stupid.

You're entitled to your opinion.

again what the hell? Are you even reading the responses? or understanding them? Your answer makes no sense at all to him

[BamBamBoogie]

I quit.

[Tomates]

I quit.

Thank god

[BamBamBoogie]

Agree to disagree?

[Tomates]

Agree to disagree with what? Your lack of knowledge for supporting your own opinion?

[BamBamBoogie]

Agree to disagree with what? Your lack of knowledge for supporting your own opinion?

1. Spell check
2. How do I lack knowledge to support my opinion?
3. Its obvious Im not agreeing with anybody here and no one agrees with me, so I am saying agree to disagree to respect differing opinions.

[Tomates]

1. Spell check
2. How do I lack knowledge to support my opinion?
3. Its obvious Im not agreeing with anybody here and no one agrees with me, so I am saying agree to disagree to respect differing opinions.

1. Its spelled fine Ktnx
2. For all your answers/responses it looks like you went to wikipedia to grab a sentance to make yourself look like you knew what you were talking about
3. No one agree's with you because what you have said is ridiculous.

[Mikeplyts]

lol@the arugument between Natilie and BamBamBoogie.

[BamBamBoogie]

1. Its spelled fine Ktnx
2. For all your answers/responses it looks like you went to wikipedia to grab a sentance to make yourself look like you knew what you were talking about
3. No one agree's with you because what you have said is ridiculous.

lol. You're quite stubborn. I really don't care if anyone agrees with me. I still sleep quite well at night. Im not going to continue to argue with you either. I tried to end this debate in a respectful way, but you obviously don't want to do that. So... later.

and btw I said spell check before you did an edit.