The only area where I have caution here is the over-application of the concept.

The example you used, "pro-life," is truly more than just an example of spinning language. The vast majority of the "Christian right" as they are called really are convinced that a fetus is a life. The concern really is for saving "a life," and not with "meddling with reproductive freedom" or "subjugating women" as it is often believed. (One could easily argue the pro-choice lobby has hammered on the word "fetus" because it sounds better than "unborn baby."

There are many issues that are really framed by differences in core values, and the language is an outgrowth of that. While I agree that skilled communicators can wield a great deal of power by using word selection to set an agenda, let's not assume influence where no conscious effort was applied.
Ike | Homepage | 01.23.07 - 4:27 pm | #

Thanks, Amanda...
Peter Himler | Homepage | 01.23.07 - 12:42 pm | #

6/12/06

http://www.strumpette.com/archiv...e- Rhetoric.html
Amanda Chapel | Homepage | 01.23.07 - 12:21 pm | #