The Why Factor
Why do we find some voices irritating?
Sep 12, 2016
Neuro-biologist Professor Sophie Scott and linguists delve into why certain voices annoy us. They discuss accents, vocal fry, and gender biases in voice critiques. The podcast explores the online backlash against Laura Ashby's voice and the evolving nature of language, emphasizing the importance of respecting diverse speech patterns.
17:54
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Quick takeaways
- Vocal qualities shape societal biases and impact voice judgments, especially targeting young women.
- Australian accent's 'up-talk' not inherently nasal, influenced by California, disproving common criticisms.
Deep dives
Australian Accent and Vocal Patterns
The podcast delves into the nuances of the Australian accent, examining the common high rising terminal inflection at the end of sentences, known as 'up-talk'. This pattern, often associated with Australian English, has been linked to influences from California and has gained popularity through American teen films. Despite criticisms and perceptions of nasality, studies have shown that the Australian accent is not inherently nasal.
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