*Cocks submachine gun*
Well, to be honest, I'm perfectly fine with clowns if they pack their creepy costumes and make-up in a bit. Effectively "civilian" clowns are perfectly fine, they're just as amusing without the unsettling costumes ruining the mood.
I love the slapstick, I love the tricks, I just can't enjoy them when the unpleasant make-up is on. They're hard-working entertainers, often professionals, and I don't mind them at all. It a difficult job, and I can always respect a professional. I just can't stand the roles they assume. Thankfully, me and clowns don't overlap very much, so our sentiments reguarding each other doesn't matter at all.