- Question
Is political correctness detrimental to society?
Although founded on the idea that everyone should be treated with dignity and respect, political correctness is frequently used to dismiss opinions as racist, sexist, homophobic, Islamophobic, transphobic and misogynistic. What is the real impact of political correctness? Does it foster harmony, or is it a weapon to stifle debate and dismiss controversial opinions as invalid?
Political correctness creates a better society
This position holds that political correctness creates a better society. It argues that clear boundaries on acceptable speech let people express themselves with confidence — sparking creativity and innovation — and that PC culture protects marginalised people from indecency and exclusion.
Political correctness is detrimental to society
This position holds that political correctness is detrimental to society. It argues that, at mild levels, PC culture stifles debate and erodes free speech and creates a culture of avoidance — and that, at its extreme, it empowers bigots and can even legitimise violence.
Political correctness doesn't exist
This position holds that 'political correctness' does not really exist. It argues that the term has no fixed or coherent definition — functioning as an empty label rather than a real phenomenon — so debating whether it harms society is to argue about nothing.