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Should We Be Swearing More?

Tom Hume is a software designer who made use of The Guardian's API tools yesterday to track what looks like a general increase the publishing of...

Patrick James
By Patrick JamesApr 04, 2009
Patrick James
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Tom Hume is a software designer who made use of The Guardian's API tools yesterday to track what looks like a general increase the publishing of curse words in that outlet's news. If it's accurate-and not a day late April Fools bit-it's pretty interesting.

It does make me wonder, though, if the occasional swear matters to readers of GOOD. We've received a few harshly-worded letters on the subject of profanity in our stories, but it's tough to tell if those opinions are remotely representative as people who aren't offended don't write to tell us about not having their feathers ruffled.What's your take: Does occasional (or frequent) swearing ruin a story or de-legitimize a media outlet? Does a bit of foul-mouthery add spice when used nicely? Does it make any difference at all?Via Gawker.

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