Words have always intrigued me and piqued my curiosity about their origins and meanings. Recently, I pondered the phrase "politically correct." Now, this isn't a new phrase, and it is likely that the vast majority of us are quite familiar with it. Between its use on social media and regular appearance in the national spotlight, it would be unusual to find someone who didn't come across this term in their lifetime.
For me, I really wanted to know why "politically" became part of this term. What does politics have to do with this? Let's look at the Britannica dictionary's definition of “politically correct”: agreeing with the idea that people should be careful not to use language or behave in a way that could offend a particular group of people. If you say that someone is PC, you mean that they are cautious not to offend or upset any group of people in society who have a disadvantage. PC is an abbreviation for politically correct.
Further investigation revealed that the term ‘politically correct’ first emerged in the Marxist–Leninist vocabulary following the Russian Revolution of 1917. It was initially used to describe strict adherence to the policies and principles of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, marking a significant historical context for its current usage.
The inclusion of “politically” in “politically correct” underscores that the concept is deeply rooted in societal and cultural power dynamics. It acknowledges that language and actions are not neutral; they can either reinforce or challenge existing power structures. The term suggests that certain expressions or behaviors are politically charged, meaning they can influence public opinion, power relations, or the perception of fairness and justice in society.
The political aspect implies that the idea of what is considered "correct" is often influenced by the prevailing ideologies of governance, cultural norms, and public policies. Governments and institutions may adopt politically correct language to reflect broader societal values, promote inclusivity, or prevent discrimination, sometimes enshrining these practices in laws and regulations.
The use of "politically" also ties the concept to public discourse and political debate. It recognizes that what is deemed politically correct may be contested, reflecting differing views on freedom of speech, the role of language in shaping society, and the balance between protecting individual rights and fostering a cohesive society. The term can be used pejoratively by critics who argue that politically correct norms stifle free expression or lead to censorship. Over time, "politically correct" has acquired ideological connotations, often associated with left-wing or progressive movements advocating for social justice. However, the term is sometimes used by critics, particularly from conservative perspectives, to describe what they see as excessive or unnecessary sensitivity or enforcement of norms.
In conclusion, the term 'politically correct' underscores the connection to power, policy, and public discourse. It highlights how language and behavior reflect and shape societal values and political realities. Understanding the origin and implications of this term is crucial in navigating the complex dynamics of our society and the challenge of operating local government.
About the Author
David L. Anthony is a member of the Keystone Municipal Solutions team of experts. He is a veteran of municipal government, having served more than 33 years in various positions of public service. Contact him at david@keystonemunicipalsolutions.com. To learn more about David and the Keystone Municipal Solutions team, click here.
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