By Phillip J. Milano Question I would like to know of a better way to address someone in their absence. Let me give an example: It annoys me when people say “that white girl” or “that black guy.” — Shaina, Indian, Fort Worth, Texas Replies How stupid would we be if when answering a question such as “which clerk took care of …

By Phillip J. Milano Question Are people getting dumber? I’m referring to lack of common sense or awareness. Things that used to be out of the ordinary (inattentive drivers, shoppers with no clue about others’ carts, people unprepared for transactions, etc.) are now commonplace. — Brad, 32, Provo, Utah Replies Yes. — Roxanne, Illinois “Dumber” isn’t a word. You just proved your …

By Phillip J. Milano Question Why do women always run to men who are [jerks] or abuse them? And why can’t they get out of these relationships? — Mike, 20, Iowa Replies Some find them “exciting.” They like living on the edge. Some think they can “save” the poor, misunderstood fellow. They believe they’re not really all that bad underneath, and …

By Phillip J. Milano Question I’ve noticed Southern whites tend to be more accepting of blacks than Northern whites. Why? — Melissa, 22, white, Montgomery, Ala. Replies To suggest that Southern whites, with their history of segregation, lynchings and white supremacist groups, are more accepting of blacks is ridiculous. — Rick, white, Ohio I confess I’ve never participated in a lynching or …

By Phillip J. Milano Question A male dentist leaned on my breasts while he was working on me. Was this necessary for him to get a good angle on my teeth, or was he just getting a quick feel? What should I do? — Laurie B., 55, Boston Replies By how you phrased your question, I feel certain you already know …

By Phillip J. Milano Question Is it true that Europeans are less dependent on the car than North Americans? — C., 22, female, Montreal Replies Only in major U.S. cities do you find public transportation systems that even come close to rivaling Europe’s. If you live anywhere other than a major city here, you need a car. Also, Americans still have …