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Banning Quote by Jay-Z

“To me, its just a word, a word whose power is owned by the user and his or her intention. People give words power, so banning a word is futile, really. 'Nigga' becomes 'porch monkey' becomes 'coon' and so on if that's what's in a person's heart. They key is to change the person. And we change…” quote by Jay-Z
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““To me, its just a word, a word whose power is owned by the user and his or her intention. People give words power, so banning a word is futile, really. 'Nigga' becomes 'porch monkey' becomes 'coon' and so on if that's what's in a person's heart. They key is to change the person. And we change people through conversation, not through censorship.””

Jay-Z

About This Quote

Source Interview: The Breakfast Club, 2015

Words gain power from the intentions of those who use them; changing attitudes, not just language, is essential.

In simple terms: Words are powerful because of intent; change people, not just words.

Key Takeaway

Focus on personal growth through dialogue.

Themes

language power intent change dialogue

Mood

reflective critical

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • community building
  • conflict resolution
  • media commentary

Key Concepts

sociolinguistics psychology ethics

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can conversation foster genuine change?
  • What role does intention play in language?
A Different Perspective

Changing language alone may not shift deep-seated biases.

3.7 out of 5 (6 ratings)

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