[jude24]

I once worked for a legislative reform commission. When we were presenting our proposals, I used the term "he" to refer to an indefinite person. The Chairwoman of the Legislature jumped down my throat for using that "sexist language."

I really wanted to say, "Ma'am, I'm sorry the English language offends you, but I see no reason to change a thousand years of the King's English to placate your sensibilities." Because we were trying to sell our proposal, I instead said "I'm sorry. I'll be more clear. 'He or she'."

Man, that gagged me.

[rhema]

I really wanted to say, "Ma'am, I'm sorry the English language offends you, but I see no reason to change a thousand years of the King's English to placate your sensibilities." Because we were trying to sell our proposal, I instead said "I'm sorry. I'll be more clear. 'He or she'."

If you'd followed the anthropomorphic he with a reference to the King's English, you'd probably still be doing hard time.