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Do offensive words harm people?

Eric Barker
July 1, 2010

The harm thesisâthe assumption that words harm peopleâis a defining feature of sexual harassment, hate speech, verbal abuse, and obscene telephone call (OTC) offenses. This thesis ignores the possibility that swearing can be advantageous, cathartic, or an acceptable substitute for physical aggression. Observational data, courtroom evidence and verbal abuse research reviewed here produce conflicting conclusions on the question of harm. The best evidence of harm resides in harassment and OTC studies, but verbal abuse research is indeterminate because of flawed research methodology. Public swearing research reveals that swearing is a common conversational practice resulting in no obvious harm. âCommon senseâ (folk psychology) views of swearing are mistaken and inadequate for some decisions regarding harm. Meanwhile, efforts to restrict speech in media and instructional settings continue, despite the lack of a convincing need to do so. Harm from offensive speech is contextually determined; therefore attempts to restrict speech on a universal basis are misguided. Psychologistsâ research needs to be informed by public policy and courtroom practices, and public policy and litigation need to be better informed by psychologistsâ research.

Source: “Do offensive words harm people?” from Psychology, Public Policy, and Law, Vol 15(2), May 2009, 81-101

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Post Information
Title Do offensive words harm people?
Author Eric Barker
Date July 1, 2010 8:26 PM UTC (13 years ago)
Blog bakadesuyo
Archive Link https://theredarchive.com/blog/bakadesuyo/do-offensive-words-harm-people.17001
https://theredarchive.com/blog/17001
Original Link https://www.bakadesuyo.com/2010/07/do-offensive-words-harm-people/
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