Doug's post about the word stupid got me thinking about vulgarity.
post The word profanity comes from Latin and originally meant "outside the temple"
My question is, should we be offended when we hear examples of these bad words? As children we are taught that they are wrong and that we shouldn't same them or we will be reprimanded. If we ask why, we were told they are naughty and hurt feelings. But are the words that which hurts feelings? No, rather it is the intent of the words.
In my opinion curse words are fucking fantastic. They are strong and show passion and a lot of the times are just hilarious. Their connotations are heavy and the images they create are very direct and lasting. They can express a level of familiarity and comfort. So why do we teach our children that they should never be used? Do we really mean for them never to use bad words? I doubt it, as most of us come to them at some point in our lives anyway.
But by reprimanding the use of foul language we are teaching that the words are wrong, not the feelings and intent behind them. Any word in the entire language can be used profanely, any word can carry behind it a wave of hate and ill-will. And obscene words, we're told, ride that wave. And that is true to an extent, but the hate doesn't dissipate with the removal of bad words from our vocabularies. It is not the fault of the words that they are being hijacked to spread pain. But since these words are stronger, they cut deeper.
Thus bad words are a single-edged sword. But as they say "sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me." My mom says that bad words make her cringe and uncomfortable. I can't relate. All words are the same, they are plastic forms that are filled with substance and meaning by the individual who says them and then are given a different meaning by the person who hears them.
So, should we censor ourselves? Should we not use these words even if they are meant to go over with humor? It obviously depends on who is around. Everyone is entitled to some form of privacy and while I may find the word 'fuck' harmless, it may make you or the next person cringe like my mom. Perhaps it's best to leave them in their sheath until the situation calls for their ferocity.
Do curse words belong in our vocabulary? And if so, do we have a certain responsibility in refraining from their use in certain situations? Who is that responsibility to, individuals or society?
My most used: Damn.
My Personal favorite: Twat
What are yours?
