[Gemme]

Originally Posted by Semantics

What downward spiral?


I've never really understand the argument that society is worse off than it used to be.

I'm a lot less concerned about some kids wearing crass t-shirts than I would have been during the time when there was segregation and it was socially acceptable to use racist language.

I think some of the concerns and issues are different, but yes, I think it's worse than it was. Back in the day, parents felt safe in the knowledge that neighbors and friends would look out for their kids and let them play from daylight to dark all over the neighborhood. Now? How far do parents let their children get before panic sets in? There's a reason for that.

The tee shirts don't bother me very much. As to the racist language, it's still being used. Blatantly. Proudly. In many areas. Whether it's deemed socially acceptable doesn't mean a hill 'o beans to those that use it.

People had more respect for one another then, in their own social circles specifically. Manners were taught. Parents didn't have to worry about kids hearing vulgar language on the streets or radio as much as they do now. As far as we have come, I think some steps have been taken backwards.