Entry 241, on 2005-10-27 at 13:44:24 (Rating 3, Politics)
The National opposition here has just announced its shadow cabinet. A new role has been created, known as "political correctness eradicator", and has been assigned to MP, Wayne Mapp. The thing about these titles is that almost everyone will agree that the idea is good in principle, but the problem is in the details. Another example would be the idea that everyone should pay a fair share of tax. Well, of course no one is likely to suggest some people should pay an unfair amount. The problem is in recognising what actually is a fair share.
The same applies to PC (political correctness). How do we distinguish between what is PC, and what is a worthwhile initiative to help a needy minority group? Its really a matter of opinion. For example Dr Mapp wants to eliminate the Ministry of Women's Affairs, but not the Ministry of Youth Affairs, and he's uncertain about Maori Affairs (at least, according to my interpretation of an interview this morning on National Radio). So why is a group for women PC but a group for youth not? Its just opinion.
If you read previous posts in my blog you will know I don't support PC and do my best to sabotage it where possible, so am I really any different? Is my interpretation of PC based on opinion as well? Yes, I guess it is. But at least I only take a personal stand on these things, and don't try to use political power to dictate what is OK and what isn't. Also, this is clearly an attempt to gain support from the significant number of us sick of PC, and not a genuine political initiative.
Listening to the interview this morning it was hard to believe Wayne will be effective in this role, because he sounded very unconvincing. Deputy Prime Minister, Michael Cullen put it well when he said "I think the sort of nonsense we will see from Dr Mapp on that should cause enormous amusement around the country." He was even more dismissive when he quipped "I think Wayne Mapp would have significant difficulty doing anything. I always thought with Wayne, actually managing to walk into the chamber, one foot in front of the other, was a major achievement in life." Well, I've always said Michael Cullen has a wicked sense of humour!
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