How Language Policing And Hyper-Sensitivity Are Ruining Social Dialogue

[The_Commonist]

I wonder what this writer's DU name is?

http://thoughtcatalog.com/jessica-blankenship/2014/02/how-language-policing-and-hyper-sensitivity-are-ruining-social-dialogue/

"There’s really no refuting the need for people to be conscientious when discussing things. We should be as respectful and considerate as possible, especially when it comes to talking or writing about topics and issues that are emotionally charged for some people. Sensitivity and kindness are immensely important, and frequently underused components to a healthy dialogue. That said (you knew that was coming), the internet has become such a hotbed of calling each other out that it’s painfully difficult to talk about anything of importance at all. Has the policing of how we talk about issues replaced actually talking about them?.."

"Here’s what I’m calling for: For us to calm down with each other on a personal level when talking about sensitive issues. Because that’s where all of our potential for real progress is falling apart. We are policing each other to death, and forgetting that we are not (most of the time) each other’s enemies. And when we let someone’s flawed handling of an issue make them an enemy, we might be costing ourselves a potential ally..."

[Tien1985]

1. I really don't like

The dismissive notion that calling out oppressive language is "hypersensitive". It inherently starts the conversation out with an imbalance. One could easily say that people who can't take correction are "hypersensitive" and that a person who won't be an ally because of criticism, was never an ally to begin with.

That being said--I recently read this piece about "calling in" as a way to have this type of conversation without causing the divisiveness that pops up in communities that should be backing each other up.

http://www.blackgirldangerous.org/2013/12/calling-less-disposable-way-holding-accountable/

I personally think this is a much better approach, although I don't claim I'll be able to reach this level of discourse in every situation.

[libodem]

2. This was perfect

Wish I had written it.

[Scuba]

3. Q: I wonder what this writer's DU name is? A: California Peggy.