Academics Quote by Stephen Jay Gould
“There wasn't much technical terminology, and then, most academics are not trained in writing. And there is what is probably worse than ever before, the growing use of professional jargon.”
About This Quote
Source Essay: “The Rise of Jargon” in The New Yorker, 1995
The passage warns that academic writing often lacks clarity, with jargon obscuring meaning.
In simple terms: Academics use confusing jargon.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize clear, plain language.
Themes
communication
education
clarity
language
accessibility
Mood
critical
concerned
inquisitive
Type
analytical
cautionary
informative
When to use this quote
- teaching
- policy writing
- public speaking
- media reporting
Key Concepts
Sociolinguistics
cognitive load
information theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we simplify without losing nuance?
- What are the risks of over‑simplification?
A Different Perspective
Complex jargon can alienate non‑expert audiences.
