Political correctness: definitions, criticisms, and cultural impact

Political Correctness

The term of political correctness has become a debated subject especially after September 11, 2001 events that shocked the mere fundamentals of American democracy. However, it is rather difficult to actually take a stand for or against this concept being applied in the United States. At the same time though, given the increased diversity in terms of culture, religion, nationality, and political views, political correctness is no longer an issue to be taken lightly, but rather to be applied.

One of the main reasons for observing a political correct attitude in today's America is related to the fact that America, at this point, is the home of millions of immigrants from across the globe. Such immigrants have come to search for better life styles, better jobs, but most importantly for a better treatment in terms of social and personal achievements. This is why it is essential that a non-biased attitude be observed. For instance, prejudices may be very harmful in dealing with immigrants. After 9/11, the general opinion on immigrants especially from the Middle East was that, in some way, they were connected with the terrorist groups that had orchestrated the attacks. Therefore, a lot of immigrants were subject of ill treatment simply on this account. This however cannot be the foundation of a mentality or an attitude. Generalizing an issue that in fact cannot be connected to individuals can harm the distinct relation that individual has with the society he or she is trying to integrate.

Another aspect that is very important when arguing for a politically correct attitude is related to the very sensitive issue religion has become. Nowadays, religion, sex, nationality, political beliefs or affiliation are no longer a discrimination criteria. At the same time though there are many instances in which people are still, without intent, categorized according to their cultural background. Therefore, for instance, although a black person is no longer assimilated to the Civil War slaves, still represents an exotic appearance in a country club that has been attended by white people during the Civil War. However, a politically correct attitude can in time reduce this reality because it can ensure a neutral education of the society in the sense that the society can learn not to differentiate based on other than the individual's capacities.

Finally, another reason for which political correctness is related to aspects of more tangible conditions such as the working environment. A politically correct attitude implies offering the same job opportunities to both men and women, to all races, cultures, and religious orientation. Providing such an open poll of selection can actually improve efficiency and working conditions in the workplace. For instance, it is important that women receive maternity leave and time off to attend their newborn children. However, it should be encouraged that men as well benefit from this opportunity. Although there are cases in which men are given paternity leave for childcare, they are not a rule, nor are these cases in equal percentages as in the case of women.