The death of decorum: Why politicians and public figures must watch their mouths

In 2012, former Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg stated in court arguments that the Federal Communications Commission should not restrict indecent or offensive content on broadcast television. She asserted that the f-word, the s-word and even naked backsides were all allowed on publicly owned airwaves, because such things were just “common parlance.”

Apparently, Justice Ginsburg hung out with a foul-mouthed crowd.

The coarse language we hear in the public sphere today is even more pronounced than when Ginsburg yawned at the thought of standing up for decorum. Politicians, athletes, so-called entertainers and social media provocateurs have indeed made naughty language common parlance, living out Ginsburg’s sentiment. The stuff that once led to mom washing out junior’s mouth with soap is now in song lyrics, on the internet and in political speeches and news interviews. Profane and indecent language now permeates the culture. Even primary school kids blurt out frat house language, as any elementary school teacher can confirm.

Many politicians and public officials throughout history have been famously profane, including presidents. Most had enough sense, however, to keep such language behind closed doors. Today, it seems, politicians have no qualms about cutting loose in public, apparently — and falsely — believing their potty mouths make them appear relatable, authentic or passionate. It mostly demonstrates, however, that they can’t control their mouths and have little regard for poisoning the public square.

President Trump has well earned his reputation as the curser-in-chief. His........

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