I guess this is entirely down to personal taste, but people should probably not be subject to discriminatory or sarcastic answers to legitimate questions. Essentially it's just adds to the level of noise, and in this particular instance, is likely to cause offence.

I think the original question has put the emphasis on the wrong thing, essentially asking how "offensive" is someone allowed to be. Really the question should be along the lines of how much *noise* is preferable in questions and answers.

I think most people would agree that simple, concise answers are preferable.