Sadly, whenever discussing ethnic issues, I have to try and establish the fact that I am not a racist.
But of course, the phrase, " I am not a racist but .....", is an open invitation, for the politically correct, and "holier than thou, " brigade to strut their stuff, promoting themselves, and pushing down on honest posters like me.
So, "I am not a racist, " but that phrase should not prohibit me from discussing ethnically sensitive issues, which should not be sensitive at all, and we should be able to address the issues of African immigration by shouting from the rooftops, "Enough, no more, send them back!", without denigrating remarks from Liberal Lefties.
I have a very special loathing for people who say "IMHO". (a) It is never humble and (b) if you're writing it, then it must be your opinion. Who else's opinion would it be?
With respect, it IS possible to over-think and over-egg anything.
It can depend a lot on how one is set up to receive and not how one thinks one should react.
I may not be expressing myself very well, fick Jock and all that but we have a two word phrase that covers most of the above, two positives conveying the negative:
Saying something that could be interpreted as racist or bigoted, but is not intended to be, is often preambled with the phrase in question.
But immediately using the phrase lends itself to accusations of racism or bigotry.
A lose lose situation.
Zacs - Exactly, my point entirely.
That is why any criticism of ethnic groups, such as Asian grooming gangs, is a hot potato, that authorities as well as individuals shy away from for fear of the racist label.
You have just proved my point.