Language

     Language is a key part of discussing controversial issues like race relations and gender equality. In order to be able to argue an effective point about any of these issues, students must first acquire the appropriate vocabulary. By using incorrect terminology, students make themselves seem less knowledgeable about the topic. People with knowledge of the correct language to use will not take someone seriously if he or she does not know how to discuss controversial issues in a politically correct way. Just as college professors would look down upon a student who has not read Macbeth, people who are well versed in the correct langauge to use regarding controversial issues will look down upon those who use incorrect language. In addition, it is important for students to understand the gravity of the language they are using. If one is going to throw around terms like "cultural appropriation" and "hypersensitivity," then it is important to know what these words entail. Many words have fairly weighty meanings and should be understood before they are used in conversation. For example, casually accusing someone of being hypersensitive can be extremely offensive. If a student wants to be part of the discussion, he or she has to use the correct language in order to be taken seriously. This is why it is so important that students are taught the correct way to use language.