There is a growing movement toward a social acceptance of political correctness, colloquially referred to as “PC culture” or “keeping PC”. It seems to be most prevalent among this new generation, particularly college students, adjoining it to somewhat of a liberal agenda.
The term’s definition, as it stands, is: “The avoidance, often considered as taken to extremes, of forms of expression or action that are perceived to exclude, marginalize, or insult groups of people who are socially disadvantaged or discriminated against.” (Thanks, Google search!)
That being said, you may have happened to hear in recent news how Donald Trump’s uncouth and inappropriate statements are the very epitome of what is considered politically incorrect, or the very opposite of a much more sensitive anecdote--someone like Bernie Sanders, who, at the best of times, would be deemed "PC." But, in further regards to Trump, whose media coverage practically consists of his racist and sexist tangents at this point, it can be seen that the need for politically correct politicians is all too real. Because who wants an insensitive asshole in the oval office?
Thus, the move toward bringing about more of a distinct "PC" environment is definitely an intellectual and progressive one at that, creating a safer haven for those who have felt offended and discriminated against in the past. There are extreme variants of this movement, as indicated by the definition, and some may see it as a means of getting away with being “overly sensitive." But I consider the politically correct people I’ve met in my life to be the arguably more tolerant people I’ve met.
It may seem annoying at times (as I have come to discover), but having to reevaluate what you say in order to make sure it's not offensive is a good thing. Despite what the opposing view may argue, maintaining a politically correct demeanor doesn’t have to mean censorship; it’s not like you can illegalize a word or anything. It’s more of a change in attitude, becoming more aware of what you say and how you say it.
Through the first half of my freshman year at Santa Barbara, I have learned a lot about gender, sex, race, religion, and sexual orientation. It wasn't in the sense that I learned more indepth of the vast kinds of any of these identifying features, but that I learned more about how to address and appropriate them in the correct manner. It can be as simple as what a person prefers to be called, whether in pronouns or in name, and while it may seem tedious to remember this information, is it not better than potentially offending someone? I think so.
I would not consider myself "PC," despite the fact that I recognize the good in the growth of its implications. I think it’s because I don’t take many things that seriously and I don’t expect many people to do the same for me. But I will strive to be as open-minded and understanding as one should be, and, at the moment, that seems to be hand in hand with political correctness.
