Discriminatory communication

Nature

Communication, both verbal and non-verbal, can enrich or dehumanize life. Discriminatory communication can be injurious to racial, ethnic, female, older persons, children, and disabled groups, and exists in the mass media, at work, and in face-to-face meetings.

Background

Discriminatory communication emerged as a recognized global concern in the mid-20th century, particularly with the rise of international human rights discourse following World War II. Its significance grew as studies linked biased language and media representation to social exclusion and conflict. Landmark events, such as the UNESCO Declaration on Race and Racial Prejudice (1978), further highlighted the pervasive impact of discriminatory communication, prompting ongoing international efforts to monitor and address its manifestations across societies.

Incidence

With older age groups, mass media tends to patronize and stereotype. Stories dwell on the problems and foibles of old age rather than its rewards and joys. It is invariable portrayed as a time of waning physical and mental powers, typified by canes, wheelchairs and persons who are child-like, self-indulgent, helpless and a bother to have around.

Claim

Non-discriminatory titles such as flight attendants, firefighters, letter carriers, sales clerks, spouses and chairperson go a long way to contributing to non-sexist communication.

Counter-claim

Discriminatory communication is vastly overblown as a societal issue. In today’s world, people are overly sensitive, interpreting harmless comments as offensive. Most so-called “discriminatory” remarks are simply misunderstandings or jokes taken out of context. Focusing on this supposed problem distracts from real issues that deserve attention. Society should stop obsessing over every word and instead foster resilience, rather than coddling people who claim to be hurt by mere communication.