Why do people go out of their way to offend others....?

Question

... and when called on it, they wrap themselves in the "Free speech" blanket?

I'm all for free speech, RESPONSIBLE free speech. Just because you have a legal right to do or say something, doesn't mean that you have a MORAL right. Ignoring that concept, can put this precious right in danger.

To Ms Advice: I don't mean keep your opinions to yourself. I would never advocate that. There are just many different ways to express an opinion, and the same message can be far more receptive if it isn't sent at the expense of someone else's feelings.

To MK6: Yes, some people are indeed overly sensitive. The answer to your question is that you have to do something that balances BOTH. Neither should be mutually exclusive.

Answer 1

When some people feel threatened by others, they lash out. Its just an inferiority complex! U can get under their skin by not caring what they have to say, or just ignoring them. The best way to get them is to prove them wrong in whatever issue they are trying to present. When they lash out with an offensive remark call them on the reason why they're saying it! They'll shut-up!

Answer 2

There are people who say things because they feel the message is important, despite the fact that the messages upsets others.

And there are people who say things just to be cruel and hurtful, because they want to spread bigotry and prejudice and hatred.

Free speech pretty much always protects the former. And it's hard for the government to accurately determine what's the latter, so it' better for the government not to get into the censorship business.

That being said, when you see people being cruel, when you see them spreading fear and hatred, when you see them trying to ram their prejudice down other people's throats -- it's time to speak out. The answer to bad speech is more speech.

If hate-mongers were laughed at and shouted down and told they were stupid by everyone around them, eventually they go slink away and pout. That's why the KKK is much weaker now than it was decades ago. Good people stood up and said no to hatred and prejudice. It's time for that to happen again.

Answer 3

Because it makes THEM feel good, because they are pathetic individuals who have nothing better to do than to demean others. Why do you think there are so many wars and chaos in the world? It all starts with one country putting another down (dis-respecting them) and it escalates from there.
When women start becoming more involved with politics I'm damed sure these issues will be thoroughly addressed!
An Yes, freedom of speech will be null and void if we don't take care of it.

Answer 4

It all starts with the way one is brought up. It's about inflated egos. And sometimes people just hurt so bad inside, they think this is the way for them to express it. It becomes a release for them. We are all here to learn certain lessons. They are simply in a process all their own, learning right from wrong.

Answer 5

For folks with a sensitive ego, they can get their feelings hurt rather easily. So does the problem originate with 'thin skin' or 'offensive speech'?? Please give us a real example.

Besides, the goal in life should be do what's 'right'.... not do what feels 'happy'. And if you can't define either, then that's ok. Our goal should still be 'right'.

Answer 6

Unfortunately, some people are born that way. They revel in offending others. I'd like to refer it as some form of bullying. The best way to deal with them is to ignore them.

Answer 7

I agree 100%. some times people need to keep thier opinions to themselves because there is no way of saying it without offending othes.

I offend you if you offend me.

Answer 8

Sometimes, it is the hormones.

Once in a while, I only abuse them after they spit on my uniform, or my flag.

I did break one guys' leg. once...