One thing I end up doing a lot when I get into discussions is opening the link to the dictionary and copying the meaning(s) of a word or set of words for everyone to see. Mostly because I've found that people don't always know the real meaning of the words they are using.
It's all the fault of the English language, of course. It is continually evolving so over time the meanings of words change or are expanded. Take semantics for example, there are three recognized definitions (even though two of them have two parts each) for it and while similar in nature, there are distinct differences in the meanings.
Our understanding of the meanings of words and the differences in our understands cause opposition to ideas we would normally agree on or insult a person when no insult was intended or confuse a person so that they don't understand a discussion and, unless they ask for clarification, can make them look like they don't know what they are talking about.
Semantics, going with definition 3b, are also used to get society to accept something it would otherwise categorize as wrong. This is because the label used for an action is justified by the label into something acceptable.
For example. if you were to take something from some one else you would be accused of stealing, which is both illegal and immoral. Yet, if it could be argues that the object in question was vital for communal survival or that the owner had no legal right to said object then it would be an appropriation or reclamation of goods and therefore, by society's laws, legal and no one would discuss the moral issue of the action.
I was in a discussion last night which ended with us declaring that it was all semantics for our arguments. Take away the justifications and excuses for actions and you get a pretty stark picture. But all this applies only to humans. As far as we, as a species, are concerned, justification exists only for us. Animals do things because "it is their nature". Humans, though, can rise above their natures by justifying their actions as beneficial to society.
Boy, are we an arrogant species.
I'm not comfortable with black and white viewpoints. I like grey shades because I understand about justifying our actions. Even people who say they prefer people to speak the truth and be blunt really don't like being given the plain facts, especially when they reflect badly on themselves. But we are raised in the belief that we are a superior species and our arrogance in this belief applies to everything we do.
Especially when it comes to how we interact.
Call a spade a spade, or if you're being a sneaky person, a shovel. Because usually that quote refers to the spade shape seen on cards but since a spade is also a shovel, if a person is not used to the other meaning they will get the wrong imagery. And, like most people, they won't make sure they understand and will eventually make a comment showing they misunderstood and be upset because they will look like a fool.
This is why I always paraphrase whatever is said to me so that I can make sure I understand. Which is why I usually end up quoting definitions from the dictionary. Which is why I usually watch my vocabulary and try not to use outdated words or words that can be misinterpreted. But sometimes my sense of humor kicks in and I make jokes and puns.
As I said last night, a cat killing a bird is still murder most fowl.
No comments:
Post a Comment