The atrocious comments by Rush Limbaugh about Sarah Fluke remind us of the things people shouldn't say, or should they?
While almost everyone agrees that offensive materials used solely to offend are terrible, what about if they're used ironically? It seems to be a divisive issue on the left which is worth discussing here.
As far as I can see there are three positions:
1. Regardless of context we should never say things that are offensive
Self-explanatory, the idea is a dirty word is a dirty word and should not be said regardless of the purpose.
2. Yes we should use it and it has a positive effect
This is the idea that using ironic offensive material can and should be used, for it discourages and eliminates what is being mocked. At the most extreme, this includes people like Slavoj Zizek claiming that racist jokes can create solidarity.
3. Yes we should use it but it has a negative effect
Probably the most unfortunate position to take. It's the idea that we should be able to since it mocks the thing it is taking the form of, but ultimately in the long run it does more harm. Incidentally, it's no marginal position, people like comedian's comedian Louie CK mentioned this.
So what do you all think?