Voices Around the World - Unit 4 PC Language

Summary

The video script discusses the evolution and importance of politically correct (PC) language across various social contexts. It highlights the shift from gender-specific to inclusive terms, the sensitivity in addressing different genders and people with disabilities, and the use of euphemisms. The script emphasizes the necessity of PC language in professions like education, journalism, and government to foster respect and avoid offense, reflecting the societal move towards inclusivity and understanding.

Takeaways

• 🔠 The importance of using politically correct (PC) language has evolved over time to respect and avoid offending different groups of people.
• 👥 Gender-specific language has been updated to be more inclusive, such as using 'firefighter' instead of 'fireman' and 'human-kind' instead of 'man-kind'.
• 👥👥 The use of 'their' as a singular pronoun has become more accepted to replace 'his/her' for smoother language, despite its traditional plural form.
• 🌐 Cultural sensitivity is crucial in language, with the speaker noting a personal journey from using traditional terms to respecting modern PC language.
• 👵👦 Age and gender terms have shifted, with 'girl' being appropriate for those under 18 and 'woman' for those older, reflecting respect and equality.
• 🤕 The language used to describe people with disabilities has changed from derogatory terms to more respectful ones like 'developmentally handicapped' or 'visually impaired'.
• 🌍 Euphemisms are used in every language and culture as a mild or indirect way to refer to unpleasant topics, with examples given in both English and the speaker's native language.
• 📚 Professional fields such as business management, education, and journalism require the use of PC language to maintain respectful and professional interactions.
• 🏛 Laws and regulations against discrimination encourage the use of PC language in the workplace and in public interactions, promoting inclusivity and respect.
• 🏢 In the workplace, especially in management, the use of PC language is crucial to prevent offending employees and maintaining a harmonious professional environment.
• 📖 Educators are expected to use PC language to respect the diverse backgrounds of students, fostering an atmosphere of acceptance and tolerance.
• 🗣️ Journalists must be mindful of PC language to avoid offending their audience and to maintain the credibility and reputation of their media outlets.

Q & A

What is politically correct language?

Politically correct language is a way of speaking and writing that is intended to avoid offense or disadvantage to members of particular groups in society, especially those who have historically been marginalized or discriminated against.

Why is it important to use gender-specific language in PC language?

Using gender-specific language in PC language is important to avoid reinforcing gender stereotypes and to acknowledge and respect the identities of all individuals, regardless of their gender.

What is the difference between 'man-kind' and 'human-kind' in terms of political correctness?

'Man-kind' is an older term that can be seen as male-centric and excluding of women, whereas 'human-kind' is a more inclusive term that acknowledges both men and women as part of humanity.

Why has the term 'he/she' been replaced by 'their' in some contexts?

The use of 'their' instead of 'he/she' has become more common as a way to avoid the awkwardness of compound pronouns and to promote gender neutrality, even though 'their' is traditionally a plural pronoun.

How has the perception of PC language changed over time according to the transcript?

The perception of PC language has evolved from a lack of awareness to a growing understanding and respect for different cultures and groups. It has become a necessary part of polite society to avoid offending others and to build bridges of understanding.

What is the significance of using respectful terms when referring to people with disabilities?

Using respectful terms when referring to people with disabilities is crucial to avoid perpetuating negative stereotypes and to promote dignity and equality. It acknowledges the person's identity beyond their disability.

What is the role of euphemism in PC language?

Euphemisms in PC language serve as mild or indirect expressions that replace harsher terms when referring to sensitive or unpleasant subjects, aiming to minimize offense and promote respectful communication.

Why is it important to use specific terms for different ethnic groups instead of general terms like 'Asian' or 'Oriental'?

Using specific terms for different ethnic groups recognizes and respects the unique cultural, national, and ethnic backgrounds of individuals, avoiding the lumping together of diverse identities under broad and potentially insensitive categories.

What are some examples of PC terms from the transcript's speaker's native language?

Examples from the speaker's native language include 'biliminsanı' instead of 'bilimadamı' to avoid gender discrimination, and 'Türkiyeli' as a more inclusive term for citizens of Turkey instead of the more nationalistic 'Turk'.

Why is the use of the n-word considered extremely offensive and inappropriate?

The n-word is considered extremely offensive due to its historical use as a derogatory term associated with violence, brutality, and racial discrimination against black people. It carries a deep and painful history that cannot be erased, even with attempts at reclamation.

How does the court system influence the use of PC language in American society?

The court system influences the use of PC language by providing legal recourse for those who feel offended or discriminated against, encouraging individuals and organizations to be mindful of their language to avoid potential lawsuits.

In what professional settings is the use of PC language particularly important according to the transcript?

PC language is particularly important in professional settings such as public relations, education, government, business management, and journalism, where interactions with diverse groups are common and the stakes for causing offense can be high.