I think Wired is one of the best magazines out about the technological revolution, so I was disappointed to see the words "fuck" and "shit" in your February issue ("Nobody Fucks with the DMV," Wired 2.02, page 85). I think the use of such terms will decrease your readership, especially among those young enough to be controlled somewhat by their elders, though old enough to be inspired by technology. Two months ago I recommended Wired to the library of my high school alma mater, and the librarian even later expressed her gratitude and the excitement of the students. They will undoubtedly miss issue 2.02, however, if not the remainder of the subscription.
I urge you to consider your role as a setter of trends and oracle of the future; keep Wired in the hands of everyone. Such words don't add much beyond their accepted alternatives, and it's a shame that eager readers will be denied the entire issue because of just a couple words.
Stephen A. Gilbvert
stephen@ai.mit.edu
Stephen, I have yet to meet a high-school student who doesn't know the words "fuck" and "shit." I do apologize for the language, however, as I didn't mean to offend. I guess I just got taken up with the heat of the moment.
- Simson L. Garfinkel
RANTS & RAVES
Watch Your Language
