“Thats offensive! You’re stereotyping! That’s racist!”.

These are phrases often heard whenever controversial matter is brought up. People experience these bombardment of words not only in the media but also in the comedy business. Far too often, comedians deal with endless shaming for making a joke or simply telling a joke about minorities or any protected species. Many notable comedians have expressed their disgust for this brand of censorship with both Jerry Seinfeld and Larry the cable guy stating that people can’t take jokes anymore. This opinion was echoed by Chris Rock who stopped playing colleges because of their unwillingness to offend anyone. Political Satirist Bill Maher chimed in on his show, Real Time with Bill Maher, saying, “It really is a shame that people can’t handle comedy anymore.”  

What is so worrying about this new brand of censorship is that people don’t care if something is offensive anymore. As a person who is at least able to enjoy jokes, I can say many comedic references are not an insult. In no way, are any ethnic groups or minorities offended. But even if a joke is offensive, it’s ok! No matter how hard one can try, every race is different, and will be offended in some way. As an Asian (Indian), I am well aware that there are many jokes and stereotypes directed to my people. But I’m fine with this not only because these jokes are pretty funny but also because no matter how hard I try, I wouldn’t be able to stop the formation of these jokes. Not only can political correctness bore an audience but this brand of censorship can be racist.

As comedian Bill Maher once said, “when you’re forbidding jokes to certain minorities, you’re actually being racist. You’re treating minority groups such as blacks and Mexicans as some sort of protected species. It is really condescending.” This type of comedy not only takes the fun out of jokes but is also hostile to American life.