Alabama Special Forces

[Glenn]

In lines similar to den4's logic, I would suggest that the minorities don't mind the jokes because they get to takes shots at "the man" in a way, and whites let it go because they don't want to be considered racist, i.e. overcompensation. Also, it's a way for non-Southern whites to say "at least we aren't that way" while still letting the minorities have their fun, thus keeping an overall harmony.

When whites do it, they do so to show that they can make fun of themselves and show that they don't approve of those behaviors, and can show that they are morally superior to the whites who do engage in such behaviors. That is, they want to show that they aren't of that type by making fun of that type.

These are just some immediate thoughts I had. Do with them what you will.

 

[lexico]

I think you nailed it, Glenn. It appears to be just right; to go further or deeper might be stretching it at the moment. Neverthelss the deep analysis that Mike gave might give it some historical perspective either backwards or forwards. The 'superiority' idea is interesting -- what negative consequence (even if something hidden) can come from it ? Perhaps a southerner might have some insight.