Why are non-smokers so racist towards smokers?

Question

I always ask for permission to smoke even if I see ashtrays somewhere. But non-smokers will say the meanest things (about how disgusting cigarettes are, how weak and pathetic smokers are etc) despite the fact I'm always polite. Why do you think this is happening? Or it's just a phenomenon found in my community?

Answer 1

You can't be 'racist' to a smoker. Wrong word. Maybe discriminative would be better.

Answer 2

Hello Mariah.
Smokers aren't a race or ethnic group but I know what you are getting at. It probably feels like racial vilification when you are smoking and people are waving their hands to fan away your smoke and making comments about how foul your smoke is.
My wife is a reformed smoker (I am a non-smoker) and she copped the comments and rudeness too. It happens everywhere and unfortunately even you regardless of your manners will be on the receiving end of the rudeness and comments because some non-smokers perceive those who smoke as weak because they can't or won't quit. There is also the "Its not healthy" cry as well, but people have the choice and that choice should be respected - right or wrong; good or bad.
The fact is smoking or not smoking is a choice and people should be respected either way. Having said that, there aren't many places that allow smoking anymore - smokers have to use designed "smoking" areas in some areas and in other public places, its banned and illegal - (In Australia anyway).
Mariah, keep using your manners and respecting those around you. Then they should see that you are respecting them even though they may not be respecting you. They may feel a little smaller for not doing so.

Answer 3

It is becoming more common place for smokers to be targets for rude comments. Non-smokers contend that they have a right to NOT be affected by second hand smoke. "Smokers are affecting their health..." I live in the #1 tobacco producing state and in several cities smoking is banned in public places. Restaurants, bars, businesses, etc. Several bars have gone out of business. People who want to smoke have to go 1000 yards from the building to light up. Business owners have no choice.
I think the business owners should have a choice, the non-smokers would then have the option to NOT patronize those establishments.
This is just a small step in taking away democracy. The government is being given more and more power to dictate what can and can't be done. I think it's funny, there is such an outcry about how bad smoking is, yet we are medicating ourselves at an astronomical rate. Medicating KIDS too. I know more non-smokers, who are taking 5+ prescription meds for a variety of reasons. Me? I'm a smoker and I'm on nothing. I get a cold about once a year, haven't gone to the doctor in about 5 years (except for yearly female exams)

Answer 4

I can't even picture ashtrays being in a public place anymore. My city has been smoke free for 2 years so asking permission is useless. You aren't allowed anyway. I never even ask in people's homes. If I need a cig that bad I go outside. If they smoke they will say no, go ahead, it's fine. At the bar we all stand outside like drug addicts. LOL! The good thing is having a night out with friends & coming home with only 2 or 3 smokes out of the pack. I didn't really answer the question because I'm never in a situation where my cig would offend anyone I guess.

Answer 5

Wrong word but you know that by now.

I believe they are discriminated against and made fun of due to the nonsmokers knowing how easy it is to NOT smoke ! Especially when so many smokers complain about wanting to quit.

I have found the use to smoke smokers to be worse for they kicked the habit and know it can be done. While still there are smokers out there dying to quit... and "dying' fits very well right there in that sentence !!!

Answer 6

People shouldn't be rude to you if you're polite, unless you consider saying "No, I'd prefer if you smoke outside." to be rude. I am not a smoker and I really don't like being around smoke but that doesn't mean people have to make rude comments.

However, it's not racist. Race is something someone is born with. Smoking is something you choose. Even if you are addicted it's still a choice. I can decide not to have someone who is smoking around me as much as someone who is swearing, making out, or any other thing that is bothersome or inappropriate. But like I said there is no reason to be rude.

Answer 7

I'll warn you that I am not a smoker, so sorry if it seems I'm attacking you. First of all "smokers" are not a "race". They CHOOSE to destroy their bodies. I wish to breathe clean air and do not like to be around cigarette smoke. If you could figure out a way to keep the smoke to yourself, then by all means, you can light up in front of me. I think we non-smokers have finally decided to start speaking up plus we're concerned about everyones health. Hope you decide soon to quit. Good luck!

Answer 8

Aside from the fact that it's not a racism issue.... People are either 1) concerned for your health or 2) insensitive to your feelings. Most people today see that smoking is a bad health decision and want those around them to fulling understand that. Those that have never smoked may not understand that smoking really is an addiction and not necessarily something that you can just stop doing. People might think that nagging you about your habit will prevent you from smoking. I think this happens everywhere and isn't particular to you.

Answer 9

I know several smokers, and I never give them any grief for their habits. But at the same time, it's a little hard for me to have sympathy for them when people "discriminate" against them, or when a new smoking ban has been passed.

If you smoke and are addicted it is only for one reason: you got yourself addicted. No one made you start smoking, and no, that first cigarette did NOT taste good. You coughed, you gagged, and possibly even got sick--but you toughed it out, and all because you wanted to be cool. Well, you reap what you sow, I'm sorry to say. You made your bed, now lie in it.

Answer 10

I didn't know smokers had their own race! But yes, people are definitely biased against smokers. Yes, it's unhealthy, and smelly to those who smoke and don't smoke, but it's a nasty addictive habit. No one has the right to be mean, but some people find it's easier to pick on something that's not healthy like being over weight or smoking because they feel self-righteous.

Answer 11

you can only be racist against a race. There being discriminate for their own health. just because you asked politely doesn't mean they should say yes. Many people die a year from second hand smoke which is what you would be giving them. Smoking is disgusting and unhealthy for you and the people around you. non smokers don't wan to in hail that terrible smoke that's why their so mean.