Pundits, college students and soccer moms alike often use and hear the term “political correctness.” The term has some pretty ambiguous origins, with some saying it was first used ironically in the USSR, some saying it originated in a right-wing comic strip poking fun at liberals, and still others saying it originated as a self-deprecating term on the left.

Nowadays, it’s most frequently used by the right as a derogatory insult to what the GOP views as a radical, out-of-control Democratic Party that wants to shield everyone from the real world.

Regardless of the term’s shady origins, it is steeped in controversy today. It’s a phrase that’s constantly being thrown around, and political commenters on both the left and right have some pretty strong opinions on the term. Some say creating a “PC culture” is just babying and will create an entire generation of gutless kids who don’t know how to take criticism.

Others say it’s important to avoid being rude and being “PC” is just common courtesy.

But what does that mean for you? Which extreme should you take? Or is there some middle ground?

Both sides have a point. Avoiding every single buzzword, “trigger” and sensitive point could send us in circles until we aren’t allowed to use any words at all. On the other hand, it is equally as important to be a decent human being and not cause discomfort and pain for others whenever necessary. That makes both extremes ill-suited for today’s society.

So I would like to propose a solution that combines these two extremes. The basic rule? “Don’t be a jackass.” Don’t say words and phrases that could hurt someone when you have other options. For instance, the word “r*tarded,” really has no place in today’s society. It’s offensive to people who are mentally disadvantaged and to their families.

The word “f*ggot” has no purpose except as an insult and should never be used. Making jokes about slavery and other points of racial tension are insensitive to the history people of color have endured here in America. People’s identities, that don’t affect others in any way, should not be belittled or put down simply because they exist.

But don’t retreat from controversial topics and discussions. Don’t shy away from asking questions for fear you might offend. Approach sensitive conversations with humility and kindness, acknowledging that you may not know everything there is to know and someone may be sensitive to certain words and phrases, but approach them nonetheless.

Don’t be afraid to speak your mind, as long as you’re not unnecessarily and recklessly spouting hate and vitriol.

Political correctness is not just a joke meant for the sidelines of the political arena. It’s not just a term to be thrown around when news personalities have nothing else to talk about. It’s a topic that needs to be taken seriously and examined with real purpose.

Our society needs to find a happy medium of tolerance and personal expression so we can move toward debating and solving more extensive issues without getting caught up in little words and phrases that cause hate-filled disputes.

So be aware of your words and how they might affect others. Try to see yourself in their position and understand why something might hurt them.

But again, don’t be afraid to talk about something or to ask questions or to have a polite discussion because otherwise we might never get anything done. Just don’t be a jackass about it.