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The Impact of Euphemistic Language

Sep 24, 2024

Lecture on Euphemistic Language

Key Themes

  • Euphemistic Language: Critique of how euphemisms conceal reality and make language less direct.
  • American Culture and Reality: Discussion on America's difficulty in facing truth and reality through softened language.

Examples of Euphemistic Language Over Time

Military Terminology

  • World War I: The term "shell shock" used for combat stress.
  • World War II: Changed to "battle fatigue."
  • Korean War: Became "operational exhaustion."
  • Vietnam War: Evolved into "post-traumatic stress disorder."

Everyday Language Changes

  • Old Terms vs. New Terms:
    • Toilet paper → Bathroom tissue
    • Sneakers → Running shoes
    • False teeth → Dental appliances
    • Used cars → Previously owned transportation
    • Room service → Guest room dining
    • Constipation → Occasional irregularity

Societal Implications

  • Economic and Social Conditions:

    • Poor people → Economically disadvantaged
    • Fired employees → No longer viable members of the workforce
  • Institutional Language:

    • CIA "neutralizes" instead of kills
    • Government "engages in disinformation" instead of lies
    • "Sunshine units" for nuclear radiation

Critique of Modern Euphemisms

  • Airline Industry: "Pre-board" for boarding process.

  • Disability Language:

    • Cripples → Physically challenged
    • Deaf → Hearing impaired
    • Blind → Visually impaired
  • Perception of Aging and Death:

    • Old people → Senior citizens
    • "90 years young" for elderly
    • "Pass away" or "expire" instead of die

Conclusion

  • Euphemistic language obscures reality and truth, often creating a detachment from real experiences.
  • Cultural fear of aging and death leads to softened language.
  • The speaker emphasizes the importance of direct, honest language and critiques the progression towards euphemisms.