Me and my brother were having a debate about swearing, but we both got to the point where aside from it being a social stigma, and a taboo word, we didn't know why (or where) it got its status. Did a group of people get together and outlaw words? Where did these roots of obscenity get their place. I honestly don't know and it sounds like a worthy challenge for the blog. I also had the thought of where did other languages get the taboo words? Each society has a list where did they come from?
Sunday, April 15, 2012
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You might find some answers in The Seven Words You Can’t Say on Television by Steven Pinker
In previous discussions on this blog and in the class that is related to this blog, we've talked a lot about how many swear words (especially the most "vulgar" ones) are directly tied to the body, bodily functions, or bodily urges. And then also the sacred being used "in vain." This accounts for quite a lot, but not everything. This suggests a lot of things, and is a good spring-board for further conversation.
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