Acceptable Quote by Mary Roach
“The terms "idiot" and "lunatic" were acceptable diagnostic terms in England up until 1959. "Imbecile" and "feeble-minded person" were, likewise, listed as official categories in the 1913 Mental Deficiency Act. England has always lagged a bit behind in discarding outdated terms for the disadvantaged. When I was there in 1980, it was still possible to shop for used clothing at the local Spastic Shop. That is, compared to the United States, where it takes, oh, about twenty-five minutes for a diagnostic euphemism to become a conversational faux pas.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Stiff: The Curious Lives of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach, 2003
Language for disability evolves slowly; outdated terms persist longer in some cultures, reflecting societal attitudes.
In simple terms: Words for disability change at different speeds.
Key Takeaway
Promote respectful, updated terminology.
Themes
disability
language
social change
Mood
thoughtful
educational
Type
nonfiction
social
When to use this quote
- public policy
- education
- media representation
Key Concepts
stigma
historical linguistics
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we accelerate respectful language adoption?
- What role does media play in this shift?
A Different Perspective
Changing language alone may not shift underlying biases.
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