GitHub threatens to shut down a repository for using the word 'retard'

Re:GitHub threatens to shut down a repository for using the ... by crimsonalucard on Wednesday July 29, 2015 @07:38AM (#9967892)

We view this type of censorship as offensive because the word "retard" doesn't carry much weight. Nobody would be fighting for this man's freedom of speech if he littered the code with the word "nigger" or "lynching"

One of the executives probably has a son or daughter who is a retard. Makes sense why such censorship can occur. When you own a product, your bias will inevitably saturate into the product. Having a son or daughter who's a retard makes this bias especially strong.

Personally I agree that "retard" shouldn't be censored because I hate censoring in general. But I also agree that "nigger" shouldn't be touched either. Defending freedom of speech means defending the right for other people to have dissenting opinions, this includes opinions that are stupid, racist and bigoted.

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Re:GitHub threatens to shut down a repository for using the ... by Cthulhu_ on Wednesday July 29, 2015 @08:43AM (#9968205)

I have a son (or daughter) who is a git - I am offended by *hub and demand they change their name to 'basebornhub' or 'intellectuallychallengedhub'

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Re:GitHub threatens to shut down a repository for using the ... by crimsonalucard on Wednesday July 29, 2015 @10:33AM (#9968865)

I bet you don't have a son or daughter who is a git or a retard. You definitely wouldn't be writing this otherwise.

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Re:GitHub threatens to shut down a repository for using the ... by jazzyk on Wednesday July 29, 2015 @03:47PM (#9971127)

You did not get his point: what is offensive to one person may or may not be offensive to other people. Where do we draw the line?

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Re:GitHub threatens to shut down a repository for using the ... by crimsonalucard on Wednesday July 29, 2015 @05:34PM (#9971725)

We don't draw the a line. Freedom of speech.

All I'm trying to promote is understanding among people from both sides.

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Re:GitHub threatens to shut down a repository for using the ... by codygman on Wednesday July 29, 2015 @11:33AM (#9969283)

> Personally I agree that "retard" shouldn't be censored because I hate censoring in general. But I also agree that "nigr" shouldn't be touched either.

The people who use the N-word should be called racists and shamed for using it though.

> Defending freedom of speech means defending the right for other people to have dissenting opinions, this includes opinions that are stupid, racist and bigoted.

Yep. Like I said though, those people should openly be called racists and be forced to know how their racism affects others.

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