Oh man, here we go: it's time to open the floodgate that is the "free speech debate" in society and video games. Even before writing this, I know it's going to make some people agree, and others say all sorts of nasty things, but nevertheless I feel compelled to write about the issue. So I know this is a lose/lose situation. But I'd ask you read everything I'm saying before posting here... at least do me that favor.
 
Today, G4 posted this weeks episode of "Sessler's Soapbox," in which he criticizes Infinity Ward's  viral video about supporting the "Fight Against Grenade Spam." If you didn't see the video, you can probably still find it; but although it's an interestingly conceived piece, the acronym it creates was indeed ill-advised (it's "F.A.G.S." if you didn't notice).  So this week, Sessler takes it upon himself to rant about the use of the word- whether it was intentional or not- acting as though it's tantamount to genocide and the end of human decency. It's not the first time he's been the stalwart champion of political correctness in video games, and I'm sure it's not the last. But while I can agree with his general point, I think his reaction, and consequently, many people's reactions to certain terms, are a bit much. My point is simple: lighten up, if only a little. 
 
Now before anyone starts flaming me on the matter, please hear me out. First and foremost, I always make sure that I keep my dialogue "classy," I don't use offensive language like this, and when my friends do, it bothers me. I think we should all try to be as kind and considerate to each other as possible no matter what the forum. However, the problem is that because of media voices like Sessler, so many words get placed on the "politically correct" blacklist, that it has begun to erode the concept of free speech. To some extent, it's limited the ability to just have fun with each other, even if it is sometimes in bad taste.  
 
It's a situation where I have to maintain that "even if I don't like what you say, I'll defend your ability to say it." I believe we ALL say dumb things from time to time, and we should be able to apologize and move on, or simply be recognized as an idiot by virtue of our conduct. I DON'T believe that demonizing people who say certain things or share specific views is right. All too often, one bad comment can ruin the life of a public figure, and it's people like Sessler who make recovering from that impossible.  
 
Here's my main point: nobody has the right to never be offended. There is this popular perception out there that certain groups of people simply cannot hear or deal with offensive language or imagery, and that's what propels these sorts of arguments. To a lesser extent, this also was true of the Resident Evil "racism" debate, in which again, Sessler was perhaps the most vocal about (even more so than N'Gai, go figure).  
 
The problem is that "freedom from offense," at least for those who carry the banner, is almost always a double standard. In particular, it's a double standard for those on the political left, which characterizes much of the games press. These same people, like those at G4, have absolutely no problem demonizing and ridiculing conservatives, Christians, or anyone vocalizing opposing views for that matter. Take for example, EA's marketing of Dante's Inferno. At E3, they staged fake "Christian" protests of the game, in a display that, at its best, was a mockery of Christian culture. Could you imagine if they'd picked on fundamentalist Islam? I have no problem saying that I'm a man of faith, and that I'm often extremely offended by some of the content I've heard on various podcasts and shows. In fact, I'd say that Giant Bomb is the ONLY podcast that doesn't wear it's political/religious affiliations (or lack thereof) on its sleeves, and I love them for that. In contrast, over the years I've heard some remarkably partisan things from Joystiq, 1up, G4, Gamespot, and more recently, Rebel FM (I am still a fan of most of these shows though).
 
Here's the kicker: for most people who are devout- (and I mean devout), Religious beliefs matter far more than personal preferences in sexual/relationship matters, yet they're fair game if they get network ratings.
 
BUT I'm trying to say this is okay, because we live in a country where people can hold and express these views, and I respect that. My problem with Sessler here is that such strong reactions lead us down a dangerous road, where more and more things become taboo, and freedom to either have fun (or be a moron) does not exist. So I'll defend the morons and those who make missteps.  
 
At the end of the day, actual hate-speech is bad, and I cannot stress how important it is we all keep our language clean and respect those around us. But to a greater extent, we should all be willing to lighten up, and take the good with the bad, because who wants to live in a society where nobody is willing to speak their mind or express their genuine opinions? I fear we're headed that way, so let's just take a step back.