Political correctness refers to the use of language or behavior that avoids offending or marginalizing certain social groups, particularly those related to race, gender, sexuality, disability, or religion. It is often seen as a way to promote inclusivity, respect, and equality in society [4].
The concept of political correctness developed as a response to discriminatory or derogatory language and actions that perpetuated stereotypes, discrimination, or oppression. The Civil Rights Movement in the United States during the 1950s and 1960s brought attention to racial inequality and discrimination. This movement emphasized the need for inclusive language and challenged the use of racial slurs and derogatory terms.The feminist movement of the 1960s and 1970s highlighted gender inequality and advocated for equal rights for women. This movement brought attention to the use of sexist language and promoted the use of gender-neutral terms.The LGBTQ+ rights movement gained momentum in the late 20th century, advocating for equal rights and challenging discrimination against individuals based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. This movement contributed to the development of inclusive language and the recognition of gender diversity.The disability rights movement emerged in the 1960s and focused on advocating for the rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities. This movement emphasized the importance of respectful language and the use of person-first language to avoid stigmatization.The recognition and celebration of cultural diversity also played a role in the development of political correctness. As societies became more multicultural, there was an increased emphasis on promoting respect and understanding among different cultural and ethnic groups [3].
These social movements, along with academic and intellectual discussions, led to increased awareness of the power of language and its potential to perpetuate discrimination and marginalization. As a response, the concept of political correctness emerged as a way to challenge existing power structures, promote inclusivity, and foster social justice.
It is worth noting that the term "political correctness" itself has been subject to debate and criticism, with some arguing that it can be used to stifle free speech or manipulate public discourse. Nevertheless, the development of political correctness reflects a broader societal shift towards recognizing the importance of inclusive and respectful language in promoting equality and social cohesion.
Advocates argue that using inclusive and respectful language can help create a more inclusive and equitable society by challenging existing power structures and promoting social justice.However, critics of political correctness argue that it can sometimes lead to excessive censorship or restrict freedom of expression. They argue that it can stifle open dialogue and debate, as well as prevent the discussion of important issues. Some also argue that political correctness can be used to silence dissenting opinions or manipulate public discourse.
Overall, the topic of political correctness is complex and often controversial, with differing opinions on its benefits and drawbacks. It continues to be a subject of debate in various social, cultural, and political contexts.
Euphemisms are words or phrases that are used to replace direct or explicit language in order to soften or make something more socially acceptable or less offensive. They are often used to discuss sensitive or taboo topics, such as death, bodily functions, or controversial issues.Euphemisms can be employed in various contexts, such as polite conversation, discussions about death and illness, or sensitive subjects related to race, gender, or sexuality. The purpose of euphemisms is to convey an idea or message in a less direct or blunt manner, often using more neutral or vague language [6].
Linguists claim that “some major dictionaries of the English language ascribe the following attributes to euphemistic expressions: they are mild,vague,roundabout,indirect, polite,less distasteful,inoffensive,agreeable,tactful,less explicit, and they have comparatively favourable implications or less unpleasant associations, whereas the substituted phrase, or the referent, is characterized as harsh,blunt,direct,distasteful,painful,unpleasant,taboo,indelicate,offensive,frightening” [2,828].
The use of euphemisms can serve various purposes, including: politeness, sensitivity, social taboos, political correctness [5]. Euphemisms can be used to avoid directly mentioning something that may be considered impolite or crude. For example, instead of saying "bathroom," one might use the euphemism "restroom" or "powder room."Euphemisms can be employed to discuss sensitive topics in a more sensitive or empathetic manner. For instance, instead of saying "died," one might use the euphemism "passed away" or "no longer with us."Euphemisms can be also used to discuss topics that are considered socially taboo or uncomfortable. For example, instead of saying "pregnant," one might use the euphemism "expecting" or "with child."
Euphemisms are often used as part of the effort to be politically correct, avoiding language that may offend or marginalize certain groups. For example, instead of using gender-specific terms like "fireman," one might use the gender-neutral term "firefighter."
However, the use of euphemisms can also be seen as a way to avoid confronting or discussing important issues directly. Critics argue that euphemisms can obscure the truth or prevent open and honest communication.Overall, euphemisms play a role in shaping language and communication, allowing individuals to navigate sensitive or uncomfortable topics with greater tact and sensitivity [1].
There is a correlation between political correctness and the use of euphemisms, as both concepts involve the use of language to avoid offense or discomfort. Political correctness often encourages the use of inclusive and respectful language, which can lead to the adoption of euphemisms to discuss sensitive or taboo topics.
Political correctness aims to promote inclusivity, respect, and equality by avoiding language that may marginalize or offend certain social groups. This can involve the use of euphemisms to replace words or phrases that are considered derogatory or discriminatory. For example, instead of using gender-specific terms like "stewardess" or "policeman," the more inclusive terms "flight attendant" and "police officer" are used.
Euphemisms, on the other hand, are used to soften or make language more socially acceptable or less offensive. They can be employed to discuss sensitive topics in a more sensitive or empathetic manner, which aligns with the goals of political correctness. For instance, using the euphemism "differently abled" instead of "disabled" is seen as more respectful and inclusive.
However, it is important to note that not all euphemisms are directly related to political correctness. Euphemisms can also be used for various other reasons, such as politeness, sensitivity, or to discuss social taboos.
Overall, the correlation between political correctness and euphemisms lies in their shared goal of promoting inclusive and respectful language, although the use of euphemisms extends beyond the realm of political correctness.
References
1. Allan K., Burridge K. EuphemismandDysphemism: LanguageUsedasShieldandWeapon, NewYork : OxfordUniversityPress, 1991. 263 p.
2. HalmariH. Political correctness, euphemism, and language change: The case of ‘people first’. Journal of Pragmatics. 2011. Issue 43. P. 828-840.
3. Hughes G. Politicalcorrectness: A historyofsemanticsandculture. Wiley-Blackwell, 2010. 320 p.
4. Lakoff R., Ide S. Broadening the horizon of linguistic politeness. Philadelphia, PA: John Benjamins Publishing Company, 2005. 87 p.
5. Linfoot-Ham K. The Linguistics of Euphemism: A Diachronic Study of Euphemism Formation. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2005. P. 227–263.
6. McGlone M. S., Beck G., Pfiester A. Contamination and Camouflage in Euphemisms. Chicago: The University of Chicago Press, 2006. P. 261–282.
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