Authors often use words or phrases such as “mankind” to refer to large groups that include both male and female members. Sociologists and feminists argue that this is an example of the use of sexist language. What does this tell us about the relationship between language and culture?Group of answer choicesLanguage is shaped by culture, and the use of nonsexist words is a signal of social change.Language shapes culture, so using gender-neutral language facilitates social change.Language can change culture, but only in negative ways that increase sexism and discrimination.Culture can only be transformed through material and economic change, not through any connection to language.
Question
Authors often use words or phrases such as “mankind” to refer to large groups that include both male and female members. Sociologists and feminists argue that this is an example of the use of sexist language. What does this tell us about the relationship between language and culture?Group of answer choicesLanguage is shaped by culture, and the use of nonsexist words is a signal of social change.Language shapes culture, so using gender-neutral language facilitates social change.Language can change culture, but only in negative ways that increase sexism and discrimination.Culture can only be transformed through material and economic change, not through any connection to language.
Solution
This tells us that language and culture are deeply intertwined. The use of words such as "mankind" to represent both genders is a reflection of a culture that has historically been male-dominated. However, as societal views evolve and there is a push towards more equality between genders, language also changes to reflect this. Therefore, the use of nonsexist words can be seen as a signal of social change. This shows that language is shaped by culture. Conversely, the use of gender-neutral language can also facilitate social change, indicating that language can shape culture as well. This is a dynamic and reciprocal relationship, not a one-way street.
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