Disclaimer: Offensive words have been censored to protect the delicate eyes and minds of those unequipped to handle sight of these foul words.
Too often, I’ve heard the saying “Don’t swear: it’s a sign of a limited vocabulary.” But in my experience, this is patently ridiculous. I’ve met people from all levels of education and backgrounds who take part in the rich tradition of profane words.
In college, some of my most intelligent and thought-provoking professors have skillfully used words like f— and s— to emphasize an idea that in no other way could be otherwise conveyed appropriately.
Recently, Vice President Joe Biden made headlines for describing the passage of health care reform as “a big f—ing deal,” but honestly, who on the left or right would say that it wasn’t?
In a recent article on Slate, John Dickerson documents the long and storied history of presidential cursing. George W. Bush said he was tired of Hezbollah’s “S—,” JFK reportedly learned to swear fluently in the Navy during World War II. Surely, if profanity can be the most effective means of communication for the “leaders of the free world,” it’s good enough for everyone else to use without ridicule.
Nevertheless, profanity and swearing remain a thorn in the craw of many mild-mannered Americans. Whether for the sake of not offending others, religious reasons or just a lack of desire to expand their vocabulary, cursing isn’t for everyone. That’s fine.
But in Mississippi, there are laws on the books that prohibit, “vulgar language.” Does it make sense that SEC. 97-29-47 of the Mississippi Code of 1972 states: “If any person shall profanely swear or curse, or use vulgar and indecent language” in the presence of more than two people they can be fined up to $100 and spend up to 30 days in jail? Are those words so abhorrent that the offender should go to jail? Even the most prudish and conservative amongst us would probably agree that’s too harsh.
In a 2004 Gallup poll, 58 percent of Americans said they were offended by the profanity on television. That’s only 2 percent less than those offended by violence, and equal to the number of people offended by sexual content on TV. It’s remarkable that mere words are just as upsetting to American viewers as violent and explicit sex acts. Those viewers may have their priorities in the wrong place. Granted, some profanity is said in passion or aggression and could occur before, during or after a violent act. Yes, some words considered vulgar describe sexual acts, but that shouldn’t besmirch or condemn all profanity.
There are alternatives to using words deemed offensive, but their effect may not be the same.
You could use a euphemism that might capture the same idea, but it may never have the same impact. Saying ‘crap,’ doesn’t always equal saying ‘s—‘.
Nothing is gained by forcing swearing on anyone, but using profanity and making someone use it are completely different. When I hear someone talk about an idea I don’t agree with, I don’t run out of the room covering my ears, or ask to have that person’s mouth washed out with soap. Why is that reaction ridiculous for offensive ideas, but sometimes common practice in regards to swearing?
Again, swearing isn’t for everyone, but as a person who’s attended college to study language, studying English and communication I’ve learned that to get a message across, precise and effective word choice is vital.
I’ll concede there are times when nothing is gained by swearing, but sometimes using specific, emphatic and well-placed profanity can make something instantly damn good.
Kyle Wrather is a senior majoring in communications and English. He can be contacted at [email protected].