Deletion of genuine trash is probably desireable-like cleaning the bathroom wall, but 'racism' is whatever people 'feel like' at the moment. The real definition has been discarded. I contend that an open forum with thought police is a very bad joke. If I say ugly or foolish things, then let people see me as foolish or offensive. I think this thread has demonstrated where the real trouble for America is today-thanks to a very couragous Mr. Buchanan.
http://pages.zdnet.com/sartre/RULES/index.html adresses the argument and will likely trigger a deletion.
Your preaching to the choir. I agree that people's views, when expressed, reflect solely upon themselves. And the fact that I love FreeRepublic makes it all that much easier for me to continue to see things that way. But if we seek to have newcomers come here and chose to stay, we have to tone things down a little. Do I like it? Not really. I'd rather anyone could come here and say "anything" they liked, even if directed at me. Once again, most people wouldn't want to wade through the endless debate that would ensue.
I hear you. And I do understand your dilema.