Review article
https://doi.org/10.7225/toms.v02.n01.008
Political Correctness – Maintaining a Balanced View
Bisera Plančić
; University of Split, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Split, Croatia
Željka Zanchi
; University of Split, Faculty of Philosophy, Split, Croatia
Mirna Čudić
orcid.org/0000-0001-8652-6975
; University of Zagreb, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Zagreb, Croatia
Abstract
The paper deals with the concept of the so-called ‘’political
correctness’’, primarily with regard to how it affects the language,
particularly that of the non-native speakers of English, who may
sometimes not be sufficiently aware of the sensitivity of the issue
in the target language, frequently not nearly as pronounced in
their own society and cultural setting.
Not surprisingly, ‘’political correctness’’ has over the years
caused a lot of heated argument and has divided people, not
only linguists, into its ardent supporters and detractors. While
the former defend it on the grounds that it can effectively
combat intolerance, prejudice and injustice, the latter object to
it as merely an instrument of political control and manipulation
and an impediment to the freedom of speech. They base their
argument on the fact that things are sometimes taken too far,
many expressions already accepted or suggested as ‘’politically
correct’’ sounding exaggerated, unnatural, and ridiculous.
Furthermore, they argue that political correctness frequently
obscures the meaning and is directed against clarity, thereby
deteriorating the language.
The authors therefore deem it necessary to highlight and
explore the arguments of both sides, trying to propose the best
ways of dealing with the issue, making all those concerned fully
aware of the problem and its implications, at the same time
striving to establish and maintain a balance.
Keywords
Politically correct speech; Euphemism; Periphrasis; Clarity; Freedom of speech
Hrčak ID:
100531
URI
Publication date:
20.4.2013.
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