Navigating Language in Political Discourse

Jul 11, 2024

Navigating Language in Political Discourse

Introduction

  • Aim: Discuss precision in language choices due to their impact on political polarization.
  • The example given:
    1. "1,000 illegal aliens were arrested" (conservative slant).
    2. "1,000 undocumented immigrants turned themselves in" (liberal slant).
  • Highlighted the role of media in shaping perceptions through language.

Impact of Language on Polarization

  • Media's language choices influence public perceptions and cater to specific political audiences.
  • Importance of understanding these choices to bridge divides.

Examples of Polarizing Language

Left-leaning Terms

  • Equity
  • Lived experience
  • Oppression
  • Pronouns and gender-affirming care
  • Latinx

Right-leaning Terms

  • Snowflake
  • Deep State
  • Mainstream media
  • Alpha
  • Illegal alien
  • Woke
  • Social justice warrior

Experience and Initiatives

  • Background: Politics reporter from Pennsylvania, founder of nonpartisan news outlet Tangle (2019).
  • Objective: Address news polarization and present balanced perspectives.
  • Challenges faced: Balanced language that still retains diverse readership.

Solutions to Polarizing Language

Solution 1: Finding Compromise

  • Example: Immigration terms—use "unauthorized migrant" instead.
  • Aim: Avoid offensive terms while presenting accurate information.

Solution 2: Using Preferred Terms

  • Example: Abortion debate
    • Pro-life vs. Anti-abortion/Anti-choice
    • Pro-choice vs. Anti-life
  • Use groups’ preferred terms to maintain neutral tone.

Solution 3: Follow and Communicate Thought Process

  • Example: Capitalization of "Black"
    • AP style: Capitalize "Black," not "white".
    • Decision to stop capitalizing based on arguments from Black writers.
  • Importance of transparent reasoning.

The Role of Individuals in Neutral Communication

  • Responsibility to communicate outside political tribes lies with both communicators and consumers.
  • Aim for sincere and tolerant communication.

Addressing Controversial Issues

  • Example: Israel-Gaza conflict and definitions of Zionism.
  • Differing definitions from various sources.
  • Tactic: Ask for definitions to gain mutual understanding.

Key Takeaways

  • Be sincere and avoid pandering.
  • Strive for tolerance of different language choices.
  • Use more neutral language when possible.
  • Stay open to new ideas and changing one's mind.

Conclusion

  • Encourage open dialogue and diverse language strategies.
  • Solicit suggestions for better cross-spectrum communication.