Does the current 'Yid debate' shed light on contemporary cultural and institutional anti-Semitism in the UK?
The Collins' dictionary definition for the word Yid: yid (jêd) -noun - slang, a derogatory word for a Jew. Similarly, the Chambers' definition: Yid/yid - noun, offensive a Jew. Yet the term is still widely used by a section of society with no reprimand or consequence. The Collins' definition of the word Nigger: nigger (ÃÂnêáÃÂ) -noun - (offensive, taboo) an offensive term for a Black person/ a member of any dark-skinned race. Again, the Chambers' definition: nigger - noun , offensive a person of Black African origin or race. ( nigger in the woodpile a hidden evil influence) . [1: Collins English Dictionary.. Web. 11 Dec. 2013.][2: Chambers English Dictionary. Web. 11 Dec. 2013.][3: Collins English Dictionary.. Web. 11 Dec. 2013.][4: Chambers English Dictionary. Web. 11 Dec. 2013.]
Both of these words are deemed "offensive", yet whilst one is completely frowned upon by most of Western society, the other is used as a badge of honour but also as slur in return by supporters of other clubs, for example Chelsea, Arsenal and Millwall football clubs.
English: Laurent Koscielny (6) of Arsenal F.C. cla...
Spurs badge 1956 to 1983
Spurs badge 1983–2006'Yid', in its contemporary usage, refers to a fan of Tottenham Hostpur FC. Its use has caused widespread controversy recently, as some Jewish fans, not only of Tottenham Hotspur, have said that the word is deeply offensive and should be socially and legally outlawed, whilst others, most notably Prime Minister David Cameron, believe that the word is harmless and, when used positively by the Tottenham fans, is not a race hate word. What is it about the word that makes it a source of great debate and why does there seem to be no obvious and pleasing answer?[5: Baddiel, David. "Yes, David Cameron,