I'm often intrigued by the cultural differences within the same society, the same geographical community and the same ethnic group about things like swearing. It's probably a big part of many student-teacher conflicts too. For some people it is a natural part of speech, needed for proper emphasis, while for others it is shocking and offensive. I'd like to read more about the studies that have been done about when, where, why and how people swear. I think it might be helpful in understanding many blocks to effective communication. - Ellen