Sexism and Political Correctness

Abstract

Sexism has throughout history affected women more specifically in patriarchal societies where the misogynist discourses are prevailing. Sexism is expressed in different ways and in different contexts among which language is part and parcel. From 1970s, the sexist language has been feminists’ great interest studying and pointing out its manifestations and suggesting what and how could individuals speak politically correct. This paper will mainly deal with sexism and its manifestations in language. Second, it will examine the feminists’ attempts to ban its use throughout societies where the patriarchal systems are deeply rooted. Third, it will also treat discourse social relations that point out how language is socially constructed and the way discourse is embedded in social practices. Fourth, the paper will examine the politically correct language obstructions and why it was refuted by many. Finally, through this paper, an examination of the very differences distinguishing between what is politically correct and politically incorrect.

Key words: sexism, political correctness, political incorrectness, misogynist discourse, explicit sexist language, implicit sexist language

DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/14-7-07

Publication date: December 30th 2024