PC Kilts

**Scotus** · 14th October 05, 08:07 AM

No, this is not a new type of kilt. I wanted to respond to something Graham posted in the pics forum in regard to why I don't post or visit this forum very much now. Graham wrote, "I have strongly held opinions too, many of us do, but my opinions are not compromised, threatened or changed by accepting that others' have different views."

It's not that I am threatened. My opinions are very firm in believing that some "kilts" that are being worn are not really kilts at all. Now, you'd think we'd be able to have such discussions, but it usually comes down to the more modern "kilt" wearers calling names. Here is an example from a Campbell (WarBird), "That kiltmaker is a moron. End of story."

How can one argue against, "That kiltmaker is a moron," just because they have a different opinion about what a kilt is and is not? I happen to agree with the kiltmaker. Thus, since I don't wish to be called names, I am not inclined to post. "You are a moron" is not an agrument that threatens, as it is not an argument at all.

I don't hold any anger for individuals on this forum, but their does seem to be a lot of political correctness around here.

**Archangel** · 14th October 05, 12:40 PM

Originally Posted by Scotus

I don't hold any anger for individuals on this forum, but their does seem to be a lot of political correctness around here.

Father Archer (Scotus)

Not wishing to start anything but what do you mean when you use the term "political correctness"? The phrase always sets off warning bells that I'm about to hear some racist/sexist/bigot express frustration that they can't continue in their ways. Well, to them, tough.

I certainly am not assuming that you are one, and hope that I'm right. However, there is only correct or wrong. There are exceptions but you initiated the thread so you get to define the terms.

NB: these types of threads rarely go/end well.

**bubba** · 14th October 05, 02:48 PM

I don't buy into that black and white view of things. Reality is too many shades of gray.

**Archangel** · 14th October 05, 07:36 PM

Originally Posted by bubba

I don't buy into that black and white view of things. Reality is too many shades of gray.

Not sure if you're addressing my post or the previous one. For the record, I'm a firm believer in continuums. (Hmm, that would be an oxymoron, wouldn't it, oh well) Anyway, that would put us in agreement.

**bubba** · 14th October 05, 07:57 PM

Political correctness is often used to mean conventional wisdom which is rarely as conventional as believed and seldom all that wise. It's mostly a way to avoid the hard work of thinking through issues. That's why I avoid the term like malaria and try to look at things on a deeper level rather than accept things at face value. To put this on topic, a kilt is a kilt regardless of the fabric. It's more a method of construction and, yes, I believe the contemporary kilts are as much kilts as the ones made of alternate fabrics as are the worsted wool traditionals. There's room for them all under the heading of kilts.

**Iolaus** · 14th October 05, 10:19 PM

Originally Posted by bubba

To put this on topic, a kilt is a kilt regardless of the fabric. It's more a method of construction and, yes, I believe the contemporary kilts are as much kilts as the ones made of alternate fabrics as are the worsted wool traditionals. There's room for them all under the heading of kilts.

I suspect that's where you and Scotus may differ. ;)

I agree with most of what you said. I believe the kilt will either evolve or be relegated back to purely "cultural event wear."

I think we need to remain respectful of the criticisms of the traditionalists though; their view is just as valid as ours. By stating your opinion as an absolute, you shut down the discussion. You have stated your belief and essentially told him that his traditional view is invalid and unimportant. Why should he continue the conversation?

Many of us "moderns," will continue to believe we are wearing an evolved form of kilt, and we will continue to encourage other neophytes to explore the modern styles. However, sometimes it seems like some men on both sides of the question will answer a challenge by lashing out instinctively rather than debating the issue...or they debate in endless circles over archaic definitions, rather than just agreeing to disagree.

The whole Kilt/Skirt issue seems to blow up into a problem of some sort every time it's brought up, If Scotus believes wholeheartedly that it's "traditional or nothing," then I can understand his desire to avoid being drawn into emotional arguements that no-one will ever win; he's not going to change his stance and neither are we.