In today’s society, political correctness has become a contentious issue, with many individuals and groups expressing differing opinions on its merits and drawbacks. Some argue that political correctness stifles free speech and limits open dialogue, while others say it is necessary to promote equality and inclusivity. Language and behavior have a powerful impact on shaping societal attitudes and beliefs. It is essential to acknowledge that certain languages and behavior can perpetuate discrimination and marginalization, particularly towards marginalized groups such as people of color and members of the LGBTQ+ community. There is justification for overarching political correctness rooted in power structures, such as gender norms or racial inequality. The idea behind political correctness is to promote equality and inclusivity by acknowledging and addressing how language and behavior can perpetuate discrimination and marginalization.
The concept of political correctness can be traced back to the civil rights movement of the 1960s, when marginalized communities began to push back against the discriminatory language and practices that had long been used to oppress them. During this time, marginalized communities, such as people of color, began to actively resist and challenge the discriminatory language and practices used to oppress them (Schwartz 13). This movement brought attention to how language and societal norms reinforced inequality and discrimination. In the decades that followed, the idea of political correctness emerged as a way to address and challenge these issues. The goal of political correctness was to use more inclusive and respectful language and practices that acknowledged the humanity and dignity of all individuals, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation, or other characteristics. This included using less offensive and more accurate terms when referring to marginalized groups, and avoiding language that reinforced stereotypes or perpetuated discrimination.
In today’s society, political correctness is often associated with issues related to gender and sexuality, such as using gender-neutral pronouns or avoiding derogatory terms for LGBTQ+ individuals. These efforts aim to create a more inclusive society where everyone’s identity is respected and validated. Political correctness has become associated with issues related to gender and sexuality through a process of social and political activism. Activists and marginalized communities have worked to raise awareness about the harmful effects of language and cultural norms that exclude or demean individuals based on their gender identity or sexual orientation. This activism has led to changes in language and cultural norms, such as the increased use of gender-neutral pronouns and the avoidance of derogatory terms for LGBTQ+ individuals (Gomez-Baggethun). Additionally, the intersectionality of gender and sexual orientation with other forms of oppression and discrimination has also led to political correctness being used to address these issues. As a result, political correctness has become a way to promote respect, inclusivity, and social justice for marginalized communities.
Political correctness is also related to the issues of racial inequality, particularly in the United States. Racial slurs or insensitive remarks about people’s skin color or ethnicity can perpetuate discrimination and marginalization (Gomez-Baggethun). Racism, discrimination, and marginalization are deeply ingrained in the United States society and its history and are perpetuated through language and behavior that reinforces stereotypes and biases. For example, using racial slurs or making insensitive comments about people’s skin color or ethnicity can reinforce harmful stereotypes and perpetuate discrimination and marginalization (Mooney and Evans 22). These slurs and insensitive comments are hurtful and reinforce the systemic power dynamics that contribute to racial inequality.
Addressing these issues using inclusive language and behavior is essential to creating a more equal and just society. Language and behavior are a way of recognizing the humanity and dignity of all people, regardless of their race or ethnicity. Inclusive language and behavior can help challenge and change harmful stereotypes and prejudices that contribute to discrimination and marginalization. For example, by using inclusive language, an individual can acknowledge and respect the diversity of people’s identities (Mooney and Evans 12). Finally, by avoiding language that can be considered offensive, people can create a more respectful and safe environment for everyone.
Political correctness can also be seen as a tool of power used to silence marginalized voices and maintain the status quo. First, it can be used to silence marginalized voices by setting the certain language and behavior standards that limit or prohibit certain forms of expression (Mooney and Evans 12). For example, a marginalized group may not be able to express their experiences or perspectives in ways that deviate from the dominant narrative without facing backlash or censorship. This can make it difficult for marginalized groups to speak out against their oppression and can serve to reinforce existing power dynamics. Second, political correctness can be used to maintain the status quo by enforcing dominant cultural norms and values (Mooney and Evans 12). For example, a particular language or behavior deemed “offensive” may be discouraged or outright banned, even if it is a vital aspect of a marginalized group’s culture or identity. This can make it difficult for marginalized groups to challenge or change the status quo, as they cannot fully express themselves or advocate for their interests.
However, when used correctly, political correctness can be an essential tool for promoting equality and inclusivity because it helps to create a more respectful and equitable society. By setting particular language and behavior standards, political correctness can help to challenge and change harmful stereotypes, biases, and prejudices that can contribute to discrimination and marginalization. For example, using inclusive language that recognizes and respects the diversity of people’s identities can help to create a more welcoming and equitable environment for marginalized groups.
Political correctness is not always easy to navigate, and people may have different opinions about appropriate language and behavior. This is because what is considered offensive or marginalizing can vary widely among individuals and groups. Additionally, some people may view political correctness as an infringement on their freedom of speech or expression. In contrast, others may see it as a necessary step toward creating a more inclusive and equitable society. Different people may have different opinions about what constitutes appropriate language and behavior because they may have different experiences and perspectives on the issues that political correctness aims to address (Schwartz 43). For example, a person who is a member of a marginalized group may view certain language or behavior as profoundly hurtful and offensive. In contrast, someone not a group member may not understand or agree with that perspective.
However, it is essential to consider the impact of our words and actions on others and to strive for a society where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. When individuals and groups are treated with dignity and respect, they are more likely to feel valued and accepted, leading to greater social cohesion and a sense of belonging. Additionally, treating everyone with dignity and respect helps reduce discrimination and bias, which can lead to a more just and fair society.
In conclusion, the idea behind political correctness is to promote equality and inclusivity by acknowledging and addressing how language and behavior can perpetuate discrimination and marginalization. This is particularly important in power structures, such as gender and sexual norms or racial inequality. While some may argue that political correctness goes too far, there is clear justification for its use in addressing and challenging these inequalities. By being mindful of the language and behavior we use, people can work towards creating a more equal and inclusive society for all.
Works Cited
Gomez-Baggethun, Erik. “Political Ecological Correctness and the Problem of Limits.” Political Geography, 2022.
Mooney, Annabelle, and Betsy Evans. Language, Society, and Power. 5th ed., Routledge, 2018.
Schwartz, Howard S. Society Against Itself: Political Correctness and Organizational Self-Destruction. Taylor & Francis, 2018.