Problem: Watch Anne Curzan's TedTalk "What Makes a Word Real?"
YouTube Video: Anne Curzan: What makes a word "real"?
In light of Curzan's talk, do you have any opinions about language? You do not have to address ALL of the following questions, but please address at least 3 questions in your response.
- Are there any usages, applications, or censorship of certain words or phrases that you support or oppose? If so, why?
- Do you or others find certain words insulting or derogatory?
- Do you support or oppose the reclamation of certain words (look up this phrase "language reclamation" if you're unfamiliar)? Do you believe the word should only be used in certain contexts?
- Are you ever bothered to see words misspelled or mispronounced?
- Do you dispute whether a word is indeed a bona fide word?
- Who is, or who do you believe should be "in charge" of language?
You are welcome to address words or phrases in any language or culture for this exercise. Again, please remember to explain your position.