Newcastle university have banned the word ‘PET” as a form of greeting. They – whoever they are – say it could be construed as inappropriate and sexist and patronising. Apparently youngsters find its use condescending and infantilising because you wouldn’t call your boss ‘Pet’ or ‘Babe’ or ‘Love’ because they imply intimacy. It’s fine apparently with friends but not at work. In my book it’s a term of endearment and each region uses different epithets eg lover, darling, chooky, hen, etc,. To ban it reflects a lack of empathy and is dehumanising and just downright silly. What do I you think?
