Language, Euphemism, and Distorted Definitions

“The beginning of wisdom is to call things by their proper name.”
–Confucius

Language can be a tricky thing. Though words are simply sounds (or other sensual notations) representing ideas, but they can have incredible power. The nigh unto infinite combinations of words permit mankind to create glorious works of art (as did Shakespeare), inspire unity and justice (as did Martin Luther King Jr.), or inflict disastrous mind-control upon the masses (as did Adolf Hitler).

Examining the etymologies (origins) of words can clue us in to the intent behind their creation. However, words also take on colloquial (common) usages that skew (or even negate) this initial intent. In way of example, the following words are often used interchangeably; though when employed more carefully, they can express subtler nuances:

Wonderful: causing one to wonder; inspiring curiosity.

Awesome: grand; inspiring feelings of awe, or being overwhelmed.

Fantastic: bizarre, as though possible only in imagination or fantasy.

Terrific: extreme or intense, such as to inspire terror.

Magnificent: splendid, fine, of high quality or stature.

Remarkable: exceptional, unusual, notable; as would warrant specific remark.

The fluid nature of words and their related contexts is what provides beauty to poetry, or humor to comedy; but when employed with malicious intent, this malleability becomes a tool for manipulation.

Euphemism is the substitution of direct language with more mild or agreeable options. It’s an attempt to paint a certain idea in a more favorable light – an attempt to persuade, deflect, or deceive. Often this is used to “soften the blow” of bad news, as is the case when an employer tells you, “We’re letting you go” instead of telling you, “You’re fired.”

Euphemism can be a subtle art; a form of dark poetry. Words not only convey ideas to the conscious mind, but to the subconscious as well. They will elicit a particular response, even if used outside of their usual context. Let’s look at a couple of relevant examples:

“Casualties of war” This refers to some harm or otherwise undesirable outcome resulting from physical conflict. It could be illness, wounds, capture, or death. We hear this often from politicians to sanitize the brutal realities of war. The term “casual” evokes notions of comfort, relaxation, safety – the exact opposite of what’s actually being described by this phrase. It’s used to put the mind at ease, when the situation actually warrants horror and indignation.

”Enhanced Interrogation” This means torture. Savage, immoral practices employed to gather information. It can also be used to provoke false confessions, which could be used to justify predetermined actions that would otherwise be unjustifiable. The word “enhanced” is decidedly positive in common usage. It suggests that something is superior to other versions of the same thing. It implies progress, aptitude, increased benefit and efficacy – all things generally considered desirable in most circumstances.

There are many ways to misuse language in an effort to obfuscate the truth. More egregious deceptions - such as ascribing inaccurate definitions to words - can burrow so deeply into one’s belief system that any attempt to extract them can cause reactionary resistance from the ego. These perversions take up residence in the mind and solidify, creating a blind spot that goes wholly unnoticed by the affected individual. It often requires outside assistance to highlight the error, which can bring pride to the forefront and present a troublesome roadblock to illumination.

Consider the following concepts, and note how a false definition can obscure what’s actually going on:

“Consent of the governed” This suggests that people consent to be ruled by others. It is a concept that defies reason. Consent is an act of agreement, willingness to participate. To be governed is to have commands dictated, and obedience enforced. If one were to give their consent, they could not be said to be governed. The act of “governance”, in this case, would merely be a suggestion willingly accepted. This would obviate the need for enforcement. If obedience is being enforced, consent is rendered obsolete. The obvious impossibility of “consent of the governed” makes supplementary concepts necessary in order to hold the idea together; which leads us to our next example…

“Implied consent” This means that by performing certain actions, or not performing certain actions, you are expressing consent, even if not definitively stated. However, for consent to be cited in any circumstance, willing agreement must be present somewhere. One cannot unwittingly consent to something. Agreement requires conscious action. For implied consent to be valid, the terms of the implication must be willingly accepted by the affected party. This, of course, would root the implied consent in expressed consent. For one party to determine what constitutes the implication without any input from the affected party is mere imposition, or victimization.

Both of these concepts are attempts to suggest consent where none actually exists by skewing the definition of the word itself. This type of redefinition can be used to manipulate the colloquial usage of language for a desired effect. In time, as this erroneous concept gets passed on to new generations, it can utterly replace the original idea.

The first step in guarding against manipulation through language is to ensure that you are not participating in these deceptions. Call things what they are, on the most fundamental level. Words are an expression of thought, and by cleaning up our words we will be cleaning up our mind as well. When our internal and external dialogue comes into alignment with truth, these deceptions will appear strange by comparison, making us more capable of spotting them.

In addition, our uncommon use of language may inspire enlightening conversations with others, helping them to learn and grow in the process. By being the change we want to see in the world, we exercise our greatest power to see that change come to pass.

Thanks for checking in!
Brian Blackwell

The following article contains information that can assist in developing a keener eye for deceptive language:

Opening the Gate to Wisdom: The Ancient Trivium