John McWhorter on Pronouns
The Good Fight
The Fluid Dynamics of Pronouns
This chapter delves into the importance and evolution of pronouns in the English language, challenging conventional grammar norms and highlighting the arbitrary nature of prescriptive rules. It explores the intersections of language with class and race, arguing for the legitimacy of dialects like African-American English and the social implications of perceived grammatical correctness. The conversation emphasizes that language is inherently flexible, shaped by historical context and societal attitudes, rather than rigidly defined by outdated traditions.
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