Perhaps like Impressionism before it, political correctness will be a useful, neutral shorthand for a way of seeing the world. Until then, it’s a insult thrown across Xmas dinner tables and in the opinion pages of The Australian. ‘You’re just being politically correct’ pointedly suggests that a view is being parroted, that is it not honestly held. Why are attempts, no doubt in my case faltering and inexpertly argued, assumed to be disingenuous? What does this do except reinforce an underlying idea that bigotry, or the ugly aspects of the Id, are not only raw but somehow better for being honest?

It confused me since I can think independently.

Because I’ve never heard a satisfactory answer.

Because not only does all the noise drive me mad (I am currently living across the road from a new building site) but constant, irritating noise can affect peoples health. e.g. leaf blowers make we want to commit murder and that would be very unhealthy for at least two of us!

Who gets to be an expat, and what makes them different from an immigrant? Why do we label new arrivals as immigrants with an implied scorn, while choose to label white, wealthy immigrants as expats?

Because I feel like society frowns upon women having crushes and tends to smear it with sleaze.

All you ever hear is that something is being tested… it seems that there is more money to be made in ‘support’ medicines

Well… Douglas Adams cared.

Capitalism is driven by infinite growth, but the planet cannot sustain this. We are at breaking point now. But it seems to question capitalism is akin to treason.

Throughout our lives we sacrifice many things for money- relationships, comfort, time- if I can rationally decide, with no duress, that dispensing with an organ is my preferred mode of raising money why should I be prevented from doing so? Particularly given that it may save the life of someone in urgent need.

Life long learning challenges premises and stimulates awareness of difference, whilst negating ignorance.

Why not?

When Nathaniel asked to be recruited by Jesus, Jesus said, “Yes, I saw you under the fig tree!” It has always intrigued me.