The joy of swearing | Geraldine Horan | TEDxUCLWomen

Summary

This engaging talk explores the art and science of swearing, examining its neurological roots, emotional expression, and social implications. It delves into the physiological effects of swearing, such as increased heart rate and potential pain relief, and discusses its role in bonding, affection, and offense. The speaker highlights the versatility and creativity of swearing, its cultural significance, and the ethical considerations of using offensive language. With humor and insight, the talk encourages a mindful approach to swearing, urging listeners to swear wisely while acknowledging its power and impact.

Takeaways

• 😯 Swearing is the use of offensive or taboo language for expressive purposes, often seen as a response to pain or frustration.
• 🧠 Research indicates that swearing is processed in the lower brain, specifically in the limbic system, which is linked to emotions.
• 👶 Children are quick to pick up and remember swear words, showing that swearing is a part of human development from a young age.
• 📈 Swearing can increase heart rate and blood pressure, which can be beneficial as a release of tension.
• 🌡 Swearing has been found to act as a form of pain relief, helping individuals tolerate discomfort for longer periods.
• 🚫 Not all swear words have the same impact; frequent use can diminish the analgesic effect of swearing.
• 🤔 Swearing serves as a creative and versatile form of expression, with the potential to be used in various linguistic forms.
• 🌐 The 'f-word' has become a global phenomenon, being adopted and adapted by speakers of languages other than English.
• 🏛 English is seen as cosmopolitan and prestigious, which may influence the adoption of English swear words in other languages.
• 🤬 Swearing in a non-native language may not carry the same emotional weight, affecting the intensity of the expression.
• 👥 Swearing can have social functions, such as bonding with others or signaling group membership, but it can also be used to offend or insult.
• 🚫 The ethical dimension of swearing involves the potential for verbal violence and the importance of considering the impact on others' dignity.
• 📊 Attitudes towards swear words vary, with some words becoming more or less offensive over time, reflecting societal changes and sensitivities.
• 🚫 There is a societal hierarchy regarding who is allowed to swear and in what contexts, with different levels of tolerance for men, women, and children.
• 📺 Media and politics often restrict swearing, making its occurrence in these spaces notable and sometimes shocking.
• 🇩🇪 In some countries like Germany, swearing can have legal consequences, such as fines for swearing at a police officer.
• 📚 Swearing is a complex and powerful form of communication that requires responsibility and wisdom in its use.

Q & A

What is the speaker's definition of swearing?

Swearing is defined by the speaker as the use of offensive or taboo language for expressive purposes.

How does the speaker describe the neurological aspect of swearing?

Swearing takes place in a different part of the brain, specifically in the lower brain than the limbic system, which processes emotions.

What is an example of a German expression that relates to swearing?

The German expression 'schwein' is mentioned, which is a bit gross and can be related to a bowel movement, illustrating the speaker's point about the expressive nature of swearing.

Why do young children often quickly pick up on swear words?

Young children are quick to pick up on swear words because swearing is something that accompanies us from a young age and is processed in the emotional part of the brain.

What physiological effects does swearing have on the body?

Swearing can increase heart rate and elevate blood pressure, which is generally considered a positive release of tension.

How does swearing act as a form of pain relief?

Swearing can act as an analgesic, helping people tolerate pain better, as demonstrated in an experiment where participants could keep their hands in icy water longer when swearing.

What is the versatility of swearing in language?

Swearing is versatile and can be used in various parts of speech, such as interjections, exclamations, and even combined to create a treasure trove of expressions.

Why has the f-word become a successful export in other languages?

The f-word has become a successful export because English is considered cosmopolitan and prestigious, and the f-word is not considered as offensive by non-native speakers.

What is the ethical dimension of swearing mentioned by the speaker?

The ethical dimension of swearing is that it can be used to offend and insult people, committing an act of verbal violence and transgressing social interaction rules.

How have attitudes towards certain swear words changed over time?

Attitudes towards swear words have evolved, with some words becoming more offensive over time, such as the n-word, while society becomes less concerned with religious swearing.

What are some of the historical punishments for swearing?

Historical punishments for swearing included having one's tongue slit, ear chopped off, or even being put to death for the offense.

What is the speaker's advice on swearing?

The speaker advises to continue swearing but to do so wisely, acknowledging the power and responsibility that comes with using swear words.