Mankind vs. humankind

For years I have been benefiting from reading the Monitor and I very much appreciate your efforts at writing fair, well-informed news. I write now with a sincere deeply felt request. Please begin using "humans," "humanity," and "humankind" instead of "man" and "mankind," unless you are referring to a specific male. Twenty or 30 years ago, "mankind" and the generic use of "man" may have been appropriate. But today, use of the more accurate and appropriate terms could do a lot toward gently raising people' s consciousness. C. Stratton, Wayne City, Ill.

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