Integrating Derogatory Terms Into Society

It can be hard these days questioning the acceptability of what are considered "Derogatory Words." I tend not to use any words that apply any derogatory connotation at all. It is an interesting phenomenon to me how the reigns are loosened up over time on words like nigger, queer, and dyke. From the little history that I know of these words, they appear to be very derogatory or at least degrading to a certain extent. I don't like any word being applied to me that has a history of holding a degrading connotation. I like to think of myself as things that have good histories, and apply only good denotations. Some may argue that these words can serve as a unifier for a subculture or counter-culture, and provide a symbol of unity. This works very well to secure the separation of counter-cultures from the mainstream, however, when applied to bigger subcultures, I don't think all members want to enforce such a strong separation from the mainstream. We all fit into certain subcultures in one way or another. I really like this about the society we live in today. There are so many groups of people doing so many different things. Specifically, creating so much art. I think it is amazing. I know that not every group of people will not always identify with every other group of people, but I think if we can stop perpetuating the use of any derogatory words, people everywhere might just become a little more peaceful.