Abstract
Synopsis Proposals for changing sexist language, while having an increasing impact on patterns of language usage in America, have also continuously been argued against in the media and in academia during the 1970s. The proposals for eliminating the usage of masculine terms as ‘generics’ have received the most criticism. In this paper, the various arguments that have been presented for retaining masculine/generic usage are illustrated and analyzed. The arguments are classified as follows: (1) the ‘cross-cultural’ arguments; (2) the ‘language is a trivial concern’ arguments; (3) the ‘freedom of speech,/unjustified coercion’ arguments; (4) the ‘sexist language is not sexist’ arguments; (5) the ‘word-etymology’ arguments; (6) the ‘appeal to authority’ arguments; (7) the `change is too difficult, inconvenient, impractical or whatever' arguments; and (8) the 'it would destroy historical authenticity and literary works' arguments. The arguments have typically been overlaid with ridicule and hostility towards feminists.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
