Join John McWhorter, a renowned linguist and New York Times opinion writer, as he delves into his book, 'Pronoun Trouble: The Story of Us in Seven Little Words.' He explores the rise of gender-neutral pronouns and the historical significance of traditional ones like 'thou.' The discussion highlights how language rules are often imposed, critiques elite dialects that exclude, and reveals how pronouns shape our identities and social hierarchies. McWhorter also touches on the limits of language in enacting real change.
The discussion emphasizes how pronouns, especially 'they,' reflect evolving societal values and the complexities of identity and inclusivity.
Listeners are urged to recognize that language evolves naturally, often conflicting with imposed grammatical rules and reflecting social dynamics.
The podcast highlights the significance of metaphors in language, illustrating their role in shaping discourse and revealing cognitive patterns across cultures.
Deep dives
Exploring Pronouns
The episode dives into the significance of the basic English pronouns: I, you, he, she, it, we, and they, highlighting their historical and contemporary relevance. The discussion emphasizes how each pronoun carries not just grammatical function but also sociocultural weight, particularly the evolving usage and ongoing debates surrounding the pronoun 'they.' Through relatable examples, it illustrates how a simple pronoun can encapsulate broader themes of identity and societal change, fueling conversations on gender and inclusivity. The speaker urges listeners to appreciate the complexities of these seemingly simple words and the controversies attached to them.
Evolving Uses of 'We'
'We' is portrayed as a fascinating pronoun that often serves as a euphemistic tool in communication. The example of politeness is examined, such as how someone might say, 'Let’s take our pill,' even if only one person is doing so, to soften the delivery. This complicates our understanding of 'we,’ as it operates on layers of meaning beyond mere inclusion. The discussion underscores that such usages arise naturally, reflecting human social dynamics rather than explicit teaching.
Controversies Around 'They'
The podcast tackles the rise of the pronoun 'they' as a non-binary option, providing insights into its historical context and the recent surge in its usage. The guest clarifies that although the book includes a chapter on 'they,' it was not specifically motivated by contemporary trans issues, suggesting that the underlying linguistic interest transcends current debates. The pronoun has shifted to accommodate a growing understanding of gender identity, showcasing language’s adaptability in response to cultural shifts. The conversation highlights ongoing resistance and varying acceptance levels in different communities regarding its naturalization.
Imposition of Language Rules
Listeners learn about the inevitable tensions between imposed language rules and naturally occurring language evolution, particularly in the context of grammar and social class distinctions. For instance, the historical use of 'thou' in addressing social hierarchy illustrates how language reflects societal structures and norms. While some prescriptive rules have been integrated into casual use, the natural human tendency to adapt language to social dynamics often clashes with rigid grammatical standards. This discussion paints a picture of language as a living entity that is continuously shaped by its speakers.
Metaphors and Cultural Reflection
The exploration extends to the pervasive use of metaphors in language, especially those pertaining to conflict and the human experience. The discussion posits that metaphors not only enrich language but also reveal underlying cognitive patterns that reflect societal values and concerns. The emphasis on conflict-related metaphors suggests that these concepts may be universally embedded across languages, highlighting a commonality in human thought processes. The recognition of metaphor’s role in shaping discourse prompts listeners to reflect on how language influences perspectives and cultural interactions.
Jonah Goldberg knows many a public intellectual, but linguist extraordinaire John McWhorter is one of his favorites. John returns to the show to discuss his new book, Pronoun Trouble: The Story of Us in Seven Little Words. Topics include: grammars of the elite, the imposition of language rules, the they-shaped elephant in the room, and the mystery behind the disappearance of “thou.”
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