Navigating Polarized Language in Media and Communication

Introduction

• Importance of language choices: Be precise with words to avoid misunderstandings.
• Same information, different framing:
  • Conservative: "1,000 illegal aliens arrested."
  • Liberal: "1,000 undocumented immigrants turned themselves in."
• Shows how polarized politics have become and the role of media.

Language and Political Polarization

• Media and political partisans use language to push away differing perspectives.
• Intentional language choices by media: For engagement, might polarize audiences.
• Individual unintentional choices: Might signal political tribes.

Examples of Polarizing Language

• Left-leaning terms: Equity, lived experience, oppression, pronouns, gender-affirming care, Latinx.
• Right-leaning terms: Snowflake, deep state, mainstream media, alpha, illegal alien, woke, social justice warrior.

Tangle: A Case Study

• Background: Independent news outlet started in 2019 by a politics reporter to combat news polarization.
• Goal: To provide balanced reporting and wide-ranging perspectives for all political spectrums.
• Problems faced: Losing readers due to polarized language choices.
• Example: Terms "pro-life" vs. "anti-abortion" and "women's healthcare" vs. "pro-choice."

Solutions to Polarizing Language

1. Find Compromises

• Use terms that don't offend either side: e.g., "unauthorized migrant."

2. Use Preferred Terms

• Use the terms groups use for themselves to stay neutral: e.g., "pro-life" and "pro-choice."
• Only use alternative terms if the group uses them themselves.

3. Follow Reasoned Arguments

• Evaluate arguments and make informed choices: e.g., whether to capitalize "Black."

Practical Tips for Communication

• Avoid signaling political tribe: Use neutral language when possible.
• Ask for definitions: To avoid misunderstandings.
• Sincerity: Be genuine in communication; people can sense pandering.
• Tolerance: Be patient with language choices you might not agree with.

Example on Controversial Terms: Zionism

• Different definitions:
  • Britannica: Jewish nationalist movement.
  • ADL: Movement for self-determination and statehood.
  • Al Jazeera: Colonial movement by any means.
• Solution: Ask how someone defines a term to bridge understanding.

Conclusion

• Responsibility: Both media and individuals should strive for neutral and inclusive communication.
• Open-mindedness: Willingness to hear different viewpoints and adapt language choices.
• Invitation for Suggestions: Open to ideas for better communication.

Thank you!