I am not a particular fan of Jeremy Clarkson, neither do I enjoy  the sort of television programme typified by Top Gear, however I think I can understand why he has said some of the things that have courted recent controversy. I will explain.

First I would add that I don't think that a man in his position should have actually said them as publicly as he did but I think it a genuine reflection of the behaviour of a particular section of the British population.

I am in the same sort of middle-aged, middle-class generation as Clarkson – which may have some bearing on matters. In my  general life, particularly with my work and my family life I am conservative, well-mannered, considerate, righteous even, and I ensure that what I say is 'politically correct'. However, when I get together in a certain social situation with friends in the Clarkson generation, the other side of our personalities is exposed. I am convinced that everyone has these sides to their personality and that most just choose never to expose them publicly.

No subject in conversation is taboo as long as humour can be extracted. The more shocking the better. Michael  Jackson, Terry Waite, Madeleine McCann, Mandela – no person is excluded. There is also overt racism and sexism, even when the group is of mixed races or mixed genders; but no one shows offence.

I have searched for a reason for this behaviour. Whether we do this as an antidote to the anodyne world that we inhabit, or in a desire to be liked, or just to make others laugh, or whether it is just the beer talking, a desire to shock, or whatever, I don't know. I don't search too hard as I don't really want to find the answer. I don't care. It's a release mechanism. Maybe that's the answer: We just don't care.

The thing is though, it is done in an environment where we are safe in the knowledge that we know each other and we know no offence will be taken. The mistake that Clarkson sometimes makes is that he behaves like this, not caring, with little thought as to his audience – but then his job is entertaining whereas it is only a private little corner of my world.