McKay, Kathryn

Wark, Stuart

Mapedzahama, Virginia

Dune, Tinashe

Rahman, Saifur

MacPhail, Catherine

2015

Language framed as derogatory names and symbols can have implications for people and their life experiences. Within a Saussurian-inspired frame, and looking at ideas of stigma and social inclusion, this paper examines the use of language as a weapon within a social context of (changing) intent and meaning. Three examples of language use in mainstream society are analysed: 'retarded' which evolved from scientific diagnosis to insult; 'gay' as a derogatory adjective within popular culture; and, the way language around suicide is used to both trivialise and stigmatise those who are suicidal, as well as those who are bereaved.

Journal of Social Inclusion, 6(1), p. 146-162

1836-8808

https://hdl.handle.net/1959.11/17947

en

Griffith University

Sticks and stones: How words and language impact upon social inclusion

Journal Article

Publication