by bve » Mon Oct 22, 2007 10:58 pm
Some comments intended as jokes will simply not appeal to all audiences, regardless of intent. The interpretation by the audience is what leads to offense and sense of distaste.
While I was not personally offended by the comments in question, I certainly was not sure how to interpret them. The lack of 'smilies' to help put things in context doesn't help either.
There was nothing in the originally quoted remark that made it obvious the intent was humor, therefore it was left up to interpretation which resulted in someone finding offense.
What's more important is the supportive attitudes that followed suggesting those offended need to get a sense of humor - this would be equally offensive to anyone upset by the original remarks.
Those making the 'joke' should know their audience and think twice before making a joke, particularly in a public forum where people from all parts of the world are 'welcome'.
There are certain topics of discussion that by their very nature are sensitive at best and hostile and volatile at worst.
Yes, as someone stated, the world could be a better place if people learned to take a joke. It would be even better if at the same time people respected the feelings and beliefs of others.
When the comments were identified the first time as offensive (if the world were a better place) it would have resulted in a simple and sincere apology for the misunderstanding. Instead the comment was defended and the thread grew with more supportive and potentially offensive comments without consideration to the scope of the audience and without respect for those who expressed being offended.
Telling someone you are offended by a comment is open honest communication, if the world had more of that it could be a better place.
Burke
KISS > COMPLEX
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