Synthesis Essay: The Use Of Non-Offensive Language

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In recent history, the concept of being politically correct, in other words, trying to use non-offensive terminology or not discuss sensitive subjects, has become a heavily contested issue. Although attempting to use non-offensive, or non-triggering language started off with small modifications to our speech, some now feel that it has become a hindrance to everyday conversation. Furthermore, even some politicians, such as Donald Trump, have began to ditch the concept of being politically correct and instead, attempted to showcase how it has become a disruption to concise and honest banter. Thus, although attempting to use language that could not be thought of as offensive or triggering can be helpful and righteous, it has become so pervasive …show more content…

A somewhat concerning example of our society's need to always subdue our voices in efforts not to be offensive or triggering are “safe spaces” that are now being set up on college campuses (Source D). These “safe spaces” were intended to grant students a place to cope with issues that they might be having in a calm and non-triggering environment. These spaces have instead manifested into locations where many subjects of deep discussion are unable to take place. These places have become a blockade for free speech and discussion due to the restrictions it places on material that is deemed “triggering”. Although it is helpful to warn individuals, who have previously been exposed to a traumatic experience, of potentially triggering content, it has instead been used to stifle learning. An example of how ridiculous political correctness has become is how a debate regarding abortion in Christ Church, at Oxford University, was canceled due to a vocal minority of students who claimed that the two debaters, both males, could not discuss this topic (Source C). According to the students, it was an outrage that “two human beings ‘who do not have uteruses’” could have a debate abortion. Furthermore, the students went as far to say that the debate would “threaten the mental safety of Oxford students”. Even though this was a vocal minority of students,

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