So, I’m listening to Bush’s speech on the radio last night, and in speaking of some Iraqi doctors he has been meeting with in regards to rebuilding Iraq’s health infrastructure, he calls them “docs.” Twice. As in “These docs are real concerned with…”
Good lord, man! Maybe that flies in Texas but in international diplomacy it makes you sound like a bumpkin, and it’s insulting to the men (and/or women) who have earned a degree you yourself have no hope of ever attaining. Show a little respect! If my mother caught me calling an learned professional “doc” I’d be in for a talking to, and I wouldn’t be surprised if your mother feels the same way.
If you want to call the cow vet that patches up your broken ankle “Doc” that’s between him and you. If you’re Marty McFly you can refer to Dr. Emmet Brown as “Doc.” If you’re Bugs Bunny, you can call just about anyone “Doc.” But if you don’t fall under these categories, wipe the word “doc” out of your professional vocabulary.
Oh, for crying out loud. It’s just not that big of a deal. The entire world already knows that he’s a redneck. It’s not like this is some kind of huge revelation.
And why exactly would your mother give you a “talking to” for calling a doctor “doc”?
No, it didn’t start as a joke thread. It started as a rather mild rant. I’m just suprised at the people who think it really is appropriate to refer to visiting dignitaries in an informal way.
