5. If I understand 'Thisgirl' correctly, s/he is saying that our choice of language is a purely personal matter, and has no social, cultural, aesthetic or ethical implications. I would challenge that, but I'm not sure that I would choose 'poo' as the most illuminating example with which to support my argument.
I'm not sure that was my point. But thank you for speaking on my behalf.
Did I suggest: Choice of language personal? Yes. Has no social, cultural, aesthetic or ethical implications? No.
I don't believe I stated or implied it. Merely, I said that how you choose to view language, or take offence to certain terms or words, is personal. The 'c-word' for example, is widely disliked. But what is to dislike? It is a collection of letters, like any other word. Social and cultural influence make it otherwise, and it is a personal reaction or opinion that causes the offence (rightly or wrongly).
My simple logic is that if you don't like a word, don't use it. It's entirely personal as to whether you choose to use a word or also become offended by its use. There are words I choose not to use, as I don't like them. But if others choose to use them, that's their lookout. That was all I meant by my statements. Reading otherwise into them and discussing my belief of language on a cultural and aesthetic(?) and ethical(once again, ?) level is inappropriate to say the least. I don't believe I made any such viewpoints known.
Anyway, I'm new to this board, so don't wish to cause any offence/offense to anyone here, so I would hope my comments have not been taken as offensive or as a personal attack. That's not my intention.