Linda Chavez’s first six words, “Civility in public discourse is important,” are used to explain that in public speech words should not be radical and racist. Chavez uses the word “bellicose” to describe the metaphors because they demonstrate aggression and willingness to fight. She believes that words should be thought-provoking and have meaning to them. Chavez tries to persuade the readers of the column that being politically correct all the time takes away from the liberty of free speech and freedom of expression. The best example that she uses is the “handbook” used by the Los Angeles Times when using words referring to a race. She makes a strong point that “words themselves aren't the problem -- it's what is behind the words that matters.” I agree with Chavez because words are not the problem it’s the context in which certain words are used. Racial slurs and stereotypes shouldn’t be used, but disowning words that upset “touchy” subjects takes away from expressing views. Without expressing views, the art of speech will soon become a lost art.
