What Language Barrier?
Summary:
This article by language professor Deborah Cameron outlines her thoughts on how and why men and women speak differently, or even speak differently at all. She explores and discusses the different views on men and women's speech like Simon Baron-Cohen's book. More importantly, Cameron says what we all think: that, yes there are differences but it's not because of gender, we speak differently because of a number of other reasons.
Things to take away: There are lots of interrogatives to actively engage the reader. Furthermore, there are pronouns throughout. In addition, there are stats which complement the things Cameron said in the article, and other researchers which also reinforce her points.
Offensive Language in the workplace
Summary:
The article discusses offensive language in workplaces. The author, Vanessa James, who is head of employment somewhere, explores how language used in the workplace can be offensive to some and how companies should structure their policy accordingly. James touches on indirect offense, so things like banter and jokes being viewed as being mean. Overall, the article is trying to get across that offensive language, direct or playful, should be avoided.
Things to take away: One main take away is the use of statistics and relevant examples to help the reader understand what the text is trying to get across.
Other Articles:
-Robert Fisk article on The Independent
-Why you should use gender-neutral language in the workplace
-How language changes due to social factors in society (Labov)
-Why you should use gender-neutral language in the workplace
-How language changes due to social factors in society (Labov)
The hidden sexism in workplace language
Summary:
This article focuses on the representation of women through language in the workplace, closely linked with gender theorists Dale Spender and Janet Holmes. Notes outdated marked terms such as 'Assassinatress' and compares them to modern one's such as 'fireman' or 'policewomen'.
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