Philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein once stated that “you cannot think something your language does not allow you to say.” This compelling utterance introduces the profound importance of language as not only a communication tool that connects societies, but as a dynamic tourniquet surrounding personal and intellectual freedom. In his passionate article, “Verbicide,” regarding the status of linguistics being employed in today’s culture, David Orr sheds light on darker trends emerging in this area of communication, and the idea that these patterns and diminishments are are reflective of much larger issues facing society. While his concepts range from straightforward to relatively-opinionated, there is certainly insight that can be absorbed from this reading and utilized in a teamwork setting, both in the academic and professional realms.
On a broad scale, I found myself resonating with the overall theme of Orr’s text, which stems from the basis that language is devolving in a means that is prophetic of cultural decline as a whole. Early on in the article, the author reviews a scenario in which a highly-performing scholar is ineloquent when articulating in conversational and written settings. He then goes on to explain that the student, “is no aberration, but an example of a larger problem, not of illiteracy, but of diminished literacy in a culture that often sees little reason to use words carefully.” I, too, have noticed that some of the most “successful” members of society today struggle with constructing thoughtful sentences that contain a vivid vocabulary. In school, pupils are instructed to write, speak, and engage in generic, cookie-cutter formats, that attest to nothing more than the ability to regurgitate course information. More stress is placed by instructors on content and quantity of information than the true quality of linguistics. This results in a lack of motivation and decreased ability to communicate articulately when outside of the classroom.
Later on in the essay, Orr expresses that this declination of language is going unnoticed by members of society due to an increased focus on content of less substance. He states that while vocabulary and dialogue in more intellectual areas like philosophy, religion, and public policy is undergoing a downward trend, language in areas like sex, violence, and consumption are increasing rapidly. This is resulting in individuals “losing the capacity for articulate intelligence about the things that matter most.” This concept is one that I feel applies strongly to my generation, who tend to express little interest in globally-pressing issues and instead favors casual, less intellectually-stimulating conversations in topics like pop culture or peer “drama.” Perhaps it is biased on my part, but I honestly feel that if you asked a room full of millennials to have an educated, articulate conversation on politics, 75% or greater would have severe difficulty doing so. I am also willing to argue that if you asked the same room what Kim Kardashian did to achieve fame, 100% of them would have an answer. This exemplifies the current mindset of a society that is placing too large a focus on irrelevant content, in the midst of struggles that are impacting the lives of others and warrant our undivided attention.
Although a majority of Orr’s assertions appeared logical and on-point, one that I tended to disagree with was the extent to which he blamed the advertising industry for corrupting language. The author stated that this market should be “held accountable for what they do,” however, I am a strong believer in the fact that there are positive elements of and environments for casual conversations in addition to formal, eloquent ones. At the end of the day, a marketer’s role is to appeal to the masses in a means that is comprehensive and relatable to consumers, in order to generate a profit. The persuasive, casual copy utilized by advertisers may not be Orr’s ideal vision for the quality of linguistics, but it is impressive in its own right and customary to the industry. The consumption of goods is critical to stimulating the economy, and as long as that is the case, advertisers will continue to take advantage of whatever language or communication styles will secure sales and generate revenue. I feel that expecting otherwise is simply unrealistic.
In team settings both at school and in the workplace, language is crucial to communication and efficiency. When working in a group, it is essential for members to fully understand the intended meaning of what one another is trying to say, so as to avoid conflict and function in harmony. It extremely easy for statements to be misconstrued, especially during group brainstorming or heated discussion, so it is imperative that clear language is employed and understood by all members. The same is true for the workplace. Language must be carefully selected before verbalization, and this will ensure that professionalism and appropriateness is present when conversing with coworkers or supervisors. If this is not done, it is possible for professional growth to be stunted, due to a boss’ perception that the said worker is unskilled in communicating intelligently or effectively. Orr made it a point in his essay to note the vagueness in which today’s individuals speak with. Rather than fully elaborating upon one’s internal environment, people will amount their feelings to a simple, “that sucks.” This type of vagueness is highly detrimental in teamwork and professional environments, especially when setting goals, objectives, mission, and vision statements. Each of these factors in a team must be specifically defined and mutually understood among all members. If linguistically, teammates are not on the same page, these guides could become misinterpreted and prompt confusion. Not fully understanding what one is working towards, or having a different focus than members in the same group can result in inefficiency and extraneous contributions. In addition, it is always important to present group findings to peers or audiences in a competent manner, covering topics of substance. Referring back to David Orr, this ability will distinguish you as more intellectual and insightful than the average member of today’s society.
One of the final touch points of the text was regarding the role of academia in the development of language, and the priority that should be placed on linguistics, word craft, and literature by teachers. Orr states that,
“We must instill in our students an appreciation for language, literature, and words well-crafted and used to good ends. As teachers we should insist on good writing. We should assign books and readings that are well written.”
In the end, it becomes our own responsibilities to consistently strive to achieve mastery of language and communication alike. Through doing so, countless doors will be opened to a more fulfilling tomorrow.
