I usually enjoy reading the commentaries page of The Chronicle, but I am sad to say that Sept. 28 was not one of those days. I am beyond extremely angry to learn that The Chronicle editor saw fit to print the recent “Bullship” column by “Monday, Monday” in its current form.
Notwithstanding the fact that the entire piece was void of any real purpose or meaning, I am shocked and disappointed, not only because a Duke student sees fit to use the word “cretin” in a humorous context but that the Chronicle editor, too, feels it is acceptable. Is it therefore also acceptable to use the term “spastic” in a comedic reference to people who don’t understand something? I think not, but I assure you it carries the exact same stigma as the word “cretin.”
I hail from England where we have a long and distinguished history of producing some of the best comedy, but never have I ever seen the use of the word “cretin” as a viable or acceptable humorous remark endorsed in print. In fact, the use of such a word in this kind of context is considered an egregious insult not only to the people on the receiving end of the jibe, but more importantly to the many people who suffer from the severe medical condition known as cretinism. The condition arises from inadequate secretion of thyroid hormones during fetal life or early infancy and results in severe mental retardation and a condition known as dwarfism.
“Monday, Monday” has demonstrated a lack of understanding and comedy skill. My only hope is that this simply shows a mistake in judgment on the part of the editor and writer. I would like to urge all students who are writing columns with a comedy twist to think very carefully about their word selection and be aware of where the comedy and moral lines should be drawn.
Clair Raver
Program coordinator
Economics Department
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