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Individual's Use of Language Expresses Characteristics.

In: English and Literature

Submitted By Cones
Words 703
Pages 3
Language can be a tool for expressing identity, which includes the prejudices of our society. This is evident in the wide range of language used to discriminate against certain groups. This language creates negative stereotypes and stigma towards these groups and is therefore trying to be minimised through the use of politically correct language. Whilst politically correct language is a growing concept in contemporary Australian society, discriminatory language is still seen widely throughout the community. This includes the use of sexist, racist, homophobic and ageist discourse.
Whether intentional or not, sexist language is present in a range of situations and contexts. Sexist language can be more covert such as calling women “pushy” while men are “assertive” or more overt such as calling a woman “gorgeous” but not a man. Sexism is most often seen when referring to women, but this could also be that it is more acceptable to be sexist to men than women. Sexism can take many different forms, for example calling one sex by derogatory or negatively associated names and even can include the way some men will refrain from using rude language around women. This shows both the positive and negative discrimination that occurs through sexist language. Sexism is clearly a prejudice held in society and is reflected in the sexist language used towards the first female Prime Minister for Australia, Julia Gillard. Julia Gillard was said to have “lied” where Ted Bailleu has a “breach of faith”. While this is not the most obvious form of discrimination, it is still clear that sexist views are held by many in society.
Racism has become a touchy subject although many individuals still use racist language in everyday discourse. This language is used to discriminate against a particular race and label them as inferior, creating negative stereotypes and stigmas. This language clearly

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