Stepping barely and perhaps dangerously, almost surely ill equipped, into the daunting Subject of Political Correctness, Censorship, And Previous Depictions Of Certain Racial/Ethnic Groups

It was very frustrating while watching a Dick Cavett Show on Decades from 1972, to see not only that the show had been edited, but at certain points, the telecast was cut.

Trust me, I am a free thinking person and among other things, deplore prejudice, especially the kind exhibited for racial or ethnic reasons. One can point to this horrible attribute of so many in the human race as a true base cause, for much of the vast suffering  humankind has endured throughout the great expanse of history.

However, if these cuts are based on so called “political correctness” or even in cutting (better not type the word, but I will) DEPLORABLE remarks, that is in my opinion, unwarranted censorship.

There also was a “cut” during the opening of the fine 1969 film, “Bob & Carol& Ted & Alice,” on another channel. A version of “Glory Hallelujah” was playing at the time of the “cut” and as in all of these cases, I am left wondering what was cut.

An example of how this could be made better might be when possible, preface a movie on say TCM by acknowledging the obviously less than fair depiction of certain ethnic or racial groups. One could have a declaration  condemning that policy, but allowing what is in the movie, to be shown.

That one is tough and I shudder each time I hear or see certain things. We all have different points of view concerning what goes too far.

However, while for better or worse, (I say worse with the plethora of not humorous, curse filled, “needing certain topics to induce laughter” comedians that abound today. As an example, if I could resurrect the show “Make Me Laugh,” become a contestant and face the likes of late night hosts, “the Jimmys” Kimmel or Fallon, trying to make me laugh, I would win so much money, NOT laughing that my (bad joke coming, but, at least I know I am not a talented comedian, neither Kimmel nor Fallon and especially their bank accounts do not “know” it) only financial problem would be the threat of my money filled safe (think Pieman) being “jimmied”) comedy has changed, I ask why not Don Rickles or Gabe Kaplan, to name two, whose act would not take off today.

Political correctness can be discussed, surely “verbal hurt” is bad, but what was, should not be censored, no matter how bad and again comments of condemnation or at least notation, as a preface, I believe would fit in.

Click below for what I believe to be entertaining moments from the show.

Make Me Laugh, best contestant ever