Episode 45 - The Wizard of Oz, Ingroups and Outgroups, and How Language Reveals What We Really Think
Dec 12, 2023
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Explore how language reveals our true thoughts and biases, from exonyms and endonyms to cultural divisions. Discover the impact of language on creating stereotypes and dividing people into groups, and the importance of reclaiming and transforming abusive exonyms into positive endonyms. Dive into the world of exonyms and endonyms and uncover the influence of language on our perception and treatment of others.
Exonyms have the power to create an 'us and them' mentality, dividing people and delegitimizing them easily.
Colonialism has influenced the creation of exonyms extensively, with some places reclaiming their endonyms.
Exonyms and endonyms reflect societal attitudes and can reveal biases and divisions, highlighting the importance of inclusive and respectful language practices.
Deep dives
Exonyms and their divisive power
Exonyms have the power to create an 'us and them' mentality, dividing people and delegitimizing them easily. This language-based division can apply to anything, from frivolous differences like football teams or music preferences to weightier issues like nationality, race, gender, and more. Humans have a natural tendency to other outsiders, using language to mark those who are in and those who are out.
Colonialism and the creation of exonyms
Colonialism has influenced the creation of exonyms extensively. Many countries and cities have been given names that differ from their original endonyms due to colonial powers. Examples include India, formerly called B'Harte, Peru, the Philippines, Siam, all of which had their endonyms replaced with exonyms by foreign powers. Some places have reclaimed their endonyms, restoring their original names, such as Myanmar (formerly Burma) and Istanbul (formerly Constantinople).
Attempts to control naming
Some nations actively try to control how outsiders refer to them by requesting a change to their exonyms. For instance, Iran and Turkey have successfully pushed for their endonyms to be used instead of their exonyms. Additionally, nations like Thailand have abandoned exonyms like Siam in favor of their endonyms. This demonstrates the desire to shape how outsiders perceive and label them.
Pronunciation changes and laziness as factors in creating exonyms
Pronunciation changes and laziness can contribute to the creation of exonyms. As languages evolve, certain sounds or letters may be dropped over time, resulting in the use of exonyms. Paris is a prime example, where the French pronunciation change led to exonyms like Paris being used, while English speakers still say Paris, retaining the original endonym. Similar shifts occur with descriptive names, such as the Netherlands or Montenegro, where exonyms like Holland or Black Mountain emerge due to ease of pronunciation.
Exonyms and endonyms revealing societal attitudes
Exonyms and endonyms reflect societal attitudes and can reveal biases and divisions. Exonyms are often pejorative and negative, highlighting a cultural divide between in-groups and out-groups. Offensive exonyms like gypsy or lap create derogatory stereotypes, while the reclamation of terms like queer showcases the power of transforming an exonym into an endonym. Awareness of the impact and use of exonyms can lead to more inclusive and respectful language practices.
Have you ever really thought about how some words you use to describe others are a bit ... rude?
Have you ever noticed the words you use to describe groups of people you don't like?
Have you ever noticed that the word for Germany in your language is different from the word Germans use?
Have you ever seen the Wizard of Oz?
And what's up with Chavs?
In this episode I explore the world of exonyms and endonyms.
We look at how language, and these language features in particular, reveals our nasty, tribal side. The side that makes us see ourselves us superior and our neighbours as inhuman.
We see how words can be used to create enemies.
And why "Paris" is pronounced oddly.
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