A recent petition circulated on change.org has been signed by many to remove sexist words from the dictionary. Started by Maria Beatrice Giovanardi and the Fawcett Society, the petition states, “This sexist dictionary must change.”
The intention is good, but the misunderstanding of how dictionaries work speaks poorly to feminist intellect.
Words and phrases are coined and then used frequently enough before they are given an entry. Removing definitions is a case of the tail wagging the dog, as if chauvinists turn to a book of spelling to discover new and exciting sexist terms.
To make a point, let’s consider the word, bitch. Starting with a female dog and morphing into an insult for women, this word has evolved to include behavior one can be proud of.
In dealing with bullshit that life throws at you such as negotiating a loan, or trying to get money back from a bad deal, would you send in a timid push-over, or a tough bitch?
“Bitch” is now used against men as a bigger insult than calling a female the same. Meanwhile, males are taking more flak for usage. Yes sir, the tables have turned. This word has been owned, and not by men.
A feminist victory should already be realized, but some people just don’t know how to stop when they’re ahead.
Ain’t that about a bitch?
Wilfred Knight
(Pondering how to rehash #IAmNotABitch if that word is no longer allowable)
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Let me hear your #IAmABitch story of success.
