In a brilliant feature, George Carlin, the iconic stand-up comedian known for his incisive social commentary, dissects the pitfalls of euphemisms and sterile language. He hilariously critiques how we soften harsh realities, from 'shell shock' to PTSD, while mocking institutions that use jargon to obscure their failures. Carlin's sharp wit shines as he explores age and death-related phrases, revealing our avoidance of difficult truths. His reflections are both insightful and outrageously funny, challenging us to confront the language we use.
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Euphemisms Soften Reality
George Carlin argues euphemisms soften and erase painful realities in language.
He shows that terms evolve to hide truth and reduce urgency for action.
question_answer ANECDOTE
From Shell Shock To PTSD
Carlin traces the combat condition label change from 'shell shock' to 'post-traumatic stress disorder'.
He suggests the softer language likely contributed to neglect of Vietnam veterans.
insights INSIGHT
Everyday Words Get Sanitized
Carlin lists everyday nouns that were renamed to sound softer and less confrontational.
He argues this linguistic shift strips humanity and accountability from social problems.
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Words That Hide the Truth - George Carlin
George Carlin (May 12, 1937 – June 22, 2008) was an American comedian, actor, author, and social critic. Regarded as one of the most important and influential stand-up comedians of all time, he was dubbed "the dean of counterculture comedians". He was known for his dark humor and reflections on politics, the English language, psychology, religion, and taboo subjects.The first of Carlin's 14 stand-up comedy specials for HBO was filmed in 1977, broadcast as George Carlin at USC. From the late 1980s onwards, his routines focused on sociocultural criticism of American society. He often commented on American political issues and satirized American culture. He was a frequent performer and guest host on The Tonight Show during the three-decade Johnny Carson era and hosted the first episode of Saturday Night Live in 1975. His final comedy special, It's Bad for Ya, was filmed less than four months before his death from cardiac failure. In 2008, he was posthumously awarded the Mark Twain Prize for American Humor.The audio in this video is from George Carlin's 1990 HBO special, "Doin' it Again".Please consider supporting After Skool on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/AfterSkool
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