It's very easy, when things like the gay marriage write-in…
“It's very easy, when things like the gay marriage write-in happen, to get sick of how people view language and say, "ah, come on it's just a dictionary." But then you hear from people who say if you take out "retarded" it won't exist anymore, and there will be no slurs for people to call my child. And that's just heartrending.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Language evolves with usage; removing words doesn’t erase concepts, it changes how we discuss them.
In simple terms: Words change meaning over time.
Key Takeaway
Focus on intent, not just terminology.
Themes
language
social norms
politics
Mood
reflective
critical
Type
analytical
commentary
When to use this quote
- education
- parenting
- media commentary
- policy debates
Key Concepts
semantic shift
political correctness
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape thought?
- Can we change attitudes without changing words?
A Different Perspective
Simply deleting words may not address underlying biases.