[CyberCowboy777]

It is not unlike the "n-word."

A word that can be used within context, only the "n-word" has a much more limited context of proper use. The "n-word" never had a scientific use.

The term Mongoloid was taught and learned by many of us as as with no knowledge of the derogatory alternative use. JenB is completely wrong in her statement that any who uses the word knows it is offensive. I did not.

[JenB]

Let me correct myself. Anyone who uses it to address a child with Down Syndrome, in front of his family, while refusing to actually look at that child, knows it is offensive. It's possible that it can be used inoffensively. When one uses it in a stupid joke, that person probably knows it is offensive.

People may use it innocently, but I think they'd be glad to learn that it can be construed as offensive so as not to use it again.

[Corin Stormhands]

The term Mongoloid was taught and learned by many of us as as with no knowledge of the derogatory alternative use. JenB is completely wrong in her statement that any who uses the word knows it is offensive. I did not.

Well, now you know.

I'm sorry, but the original use on this thread was clearly pointing at both meanings of the word.