In "The World According to Bertie," Alexander McCall Smith explores the issue of self-censorship prevalent in modern society. The narrator reflects on how individuals are often hesitant to express their true thoughts for fear of offending others, driven by the pressure of political correctness. This struggle for authenticity is underscored by a sense that many have been coerced into silence, suppressing their opinions to avoid conflict.

The quote highlights the irony of this situation; while the intention may be to promote understanding, it often results in a stifling atmosphere where genuine discourse is discouraged. The character acknowledges that the act of speaking one's mind is seen as shocking, revealing a growing divide between individual expression and societal expectations. This theme underlines the complexities of communication in a culturally sensitive environment.