Philosopher's Zone
Summer season: What is swearing?
Jan 1, 2025
Rebecca Roach, a senior lecturer in philosophy and author of "For Fuck's Sake," dives into the fascinating world of swearing. She explores how swearing's power transcends mere words and reflects cultural taboos. Discussing its evolution from religious blasphemy to modern expressions, she examines the role of context and intent in shaping perceptions. Roach also critiques censorship practices in media, arguing how bleeping can amplify the impact of swear words. Additionally, she distinguishes swear words from slurs, highlighting their varying societal implications.
34:31
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Quick takeaways
- Swearing is deeply rooted in historical contexts, evolving from blasphemy to a complex interaction with contemporary societal norms and expectations.
- The social dynamics of swearing reveal its dual role as a tool for bonding among peers and as a marker of disrespect in formal situations.
Deep dives
The Historical Roots of Swearing
Swearing has deep historical roots, particularly linked to religious language. Historically, blasphemy was considered the most taboo form of language, and as societal values shifted, this aspect of swearing evolved. In the past, the act of cursing was seen as potentially inflicting spiritual harm, connecting swearing to older superstitious beliefs. Today, while the power of religious language has diminished in secular contexts, remnants of this prohibition still influence how swearing is perceived and its ability to shock.
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