I don't see it the same way but that's why America is great, we can agree to disagree.

You regard liberals as making excuses for black irresponsibility. I suppose the programs designated to help blacks would be included in this thinking.

Yes, I agree, responsibility is a personal matter. However and at the same time, black history inside America sets the context for moving forward towards better race relations.

If those single parent numbers were lower amongst blacks, if those unemployment numbers were lower amongst blacks…..still….the context of the history of black's inside America would still be relevant and necessary to understand for making further progress.

Thanks for taking the time to jawbone with me about this.

It's this belief that puts me at odds with many blacks and white liberals. I don't make or accept any excuses. The desire to be responsible and accountable for one's actions is personal, not historical or cultural.

White guilt exists. It's real, and it has real implications for hampering efforts to bring about racial harmony. You can call it bogus if you prefer, and I'll just say that you're in denial of the obvious.

No serious person will deny that blacks have been historically oppressed. But history also shows that it was the overwhelming will of white America that put an end to it. Funny, you don't hear much about that. Mixed in with all the talk about Reparations, a sincere "thank you" would be nice.

However, acknowledging this doesn't mean, at least not to me, that whites feel guilty themselves today for that oppression. Even bleeding heart types.

But the facts at the very least show that whites, historically, were RESPONSIBLE for that oppression.

The question, I don't think, centers on guilt or trying to make whites feel guilty, but instead, with this historic reality, it's aftermath and what can be done now constructively to pick up the pieces and bind us together as one America.

Sometimes I take the white guilt talk from conservatives as some bogus justification to oppose better race relations.

And your inclusion of "self-destructive behavior prevalent in the black community today", is also instructive. White culture also has it's share of self-destructive behavior….and because there are 8 times as many of us than blacks….I would suggest it is also more destructive.

The conservative call for accountability and personal responsibility is something I agree with…..and it applies to ALL people, regardless of their race. I would bet that you agree.

See? Common ground.

Of course, you knew this before you asked.

I've seen the words "thrown around" myself, and when taken in context, the meaning is self evident.

Caucasian, huh?

You're caucasian now ? Hmmm….

Loved the Thriller album.

Stay away from the kids please.

Explain to me what "white guilt" is supposed to mean. I'm serious. I see those two words thrown around but I've not seen a full explanation of what they're supposed to mean or imply.

I said nothing about his speech. I mentioned his book.

But since you mentioned the speech, allow me the opportunity to refute your contention that he "spoke to both sides". He did not. His speech pandered to black militancy and white guilt, which for all practical purposes is the same side.

Some black political hopefuls will find it quite shocking that they will actually be held accountable, just like their white counterparts, for talking out of both sides of their mouths. Whether it be a speech on racism, or some backroom meeting with Canadians about trade issues, Obama has proven adept at telling people what he thinks they want to hear. Those skeletons will start falling out of the closet soon enough. And nothing, not political correctness, white guilt or affirmative action will be able to bail them out. Ain't equality wonderful?