How Language Can Influence Perceptions & Thoughts!

[dmitridr]

*** How Language Can Influence Perceptions & Thoughts! ***

Hey guys,

As we approach the middle of the term, it's important that you do not forget to lose sight of your goals. As winter looms and an avalanche of SACs ensue, it's important that you remain focused.

In this article, I want to talk about an example I found online for how language can influence people's perceptions, thoughts and behaviours.

Read this first: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-4037076/New-government-language-guide-tells-public-servants-not-say-husband-wife-s-heteronormative-offend-people.html

One example is the creation of the ‘Inclusive Language Guide’ by the Victorian Government in late 2016. In this guide, the Government tells public servants not to say husband or wife because it’s too ‘heteronormative’ and it might offend people.

The guide encourages both the public and businesses to use the word ‘partner’ than wife, girlfriend, husband or boyfriend, to avoid heteronormativity and promote sexual freedom and equality. 

Victorian Equality Minister Martin Foley said the guide was part of a measure to eliminate homophobia, biphobia and transphobia (through language changes).

Do you think this was successful?

Thanks!
Dmitri