Understanding Political Correctness and Language Change

The video explores the topic of political correctness in language, discussing its definition, examples, and the concept of linguistic relativity. It presents arguments for and against politically correct language, highlighting its role in shaping social attitudes and the potential constraints on freedom of speech. The video concludes with guidance on writing an essay about language change and its implications.

What is a common portrayal of political correctness in media headlines?

• As a historical concept

• As a necessary social change

• As an overreaction

• As a minor issue

How is political correctness defined in terms of language?

• As a way to enhance vocabulary

• As a method to minimize social inequality

• As a tool for political debates

• As a form of censorship

What is linguistic relativity also known as?

• The Sapir-Whorf hypothesis

• The language determinism theory

• The communication model

• The grammar hypothesis

Why was the term 'half caste' replaced with 'mixed race'?

• To avoid suggesting incompleteness

• To simplify language

• To reflect historical usage

• To enhance clarity

What is the alternative term for 'stewardess' that avoids gender specification?

• Flight attendant

• Air hostess

• Cabin crew

• Pilot

What is one argument in favor of politically correct language?

• It is a temporary trend

• It limits freedom of speech

• It is unnecessary

• It helps shape social attitudes

What is a common argument against politically correct language?

• It is easy to implement

• It enhances communication

• It constrains freedom of speech

• It is universally accepted

What does the euphemism treadmill refer to?

• The constant change of language labels

• The stability of language over time

• The increase in language complexity

• The decline of language use

What is the difference between prescriptive and descriptive attitudes towards language?

• Descriptive focuses on rules, prescriptive on usage

• Both focus on language rules

• Prescriptive focuses on rules, descriptive on usage

• Both focus on language usage

What is an example of a politically correct term replacing an outdated one?

• Majority world replacing third world

• Old world replacing new world

• Developed world replacing first world

• Minority world replacing majority world