[martyup]

With respect, I think its original invocation in this thread was very much in line with Coates's definition: as something other and undesirable, to be shunned and avoided.

Well, I originally used the term to describe the neighborhoods surrounding USC.  I used it because it was in line with my personal experience and observations in those neighborhoods based on my understanding of the term.  In other words, those neighborhoods are run down and have high crime rates.  There was nothing racial in my mind when I used the term "ghetto."  I have been to similar neighborhoods that are primarily inhabited by caucasians, and I would call them "ghettos" as well.  Changing the word won't change the neighborhood.

And, yes, I would recommend avoiding south central LA no matter what may be your race or ethnicity.

[martyup]

With respect, I think its original invocation in this thread was very much in line with Coates's definition: as something other and undesirable, to be shunned and avoided.

Well, I originally used the term to describe the neighborhoods surrounding USC.  I used it because it was in line with my personal experience and observations in those neighborhoods based on my understanding of the term.  In other words, those neighborhoods are run down and have high crime rates.  There was nothing racial in my mind when I used the term "ghetto."  I have been to similar neighborhoods that are primarily inhabited by caucasians, and I would call them "ghettos" as well.  Changing the word won't change the neighborhood.

And, yes, I would recommend avoiding south central LA no matter what may be your race or ethnicity.