I just read null_geodesic's recent amazing blog on mathematicians and music. He points out the evolution of the term "conservative" (as well as providing historical and advanced mathematical connections. (I had to get up several times and smack myself in the side of the head because my brain froze up trying to take it in!!) But he prompted me to comment as follows:
What a terrific reminder that language and terminology only define "what is" in contemporary terms, i.e., - what the word "conservative" - or any given word means to us today, is not necessarily quite what it meant to Jefferson or Burke or even Reagan. Language is what it is at any given time, but linguistics - the study of language and how it evolves - teaches us how words become co-opted, how they lose their "power "over time and through overuse and fall out of favor. A given word may be replaced with one less familiar, therefore more powerful - because that will grab attention. If an alternative does not readily present itself, one may even be "borrowed" from another language. "Detente" comes to mind - and it is rarely spelled as it was in the French: de-tente. We know what it means and even that the pronunciation is anything but phonetic becuse it is the most commonly used term for compromise between nations. Eventually words such as these are integrated into common usage and we "forget" their origin. New meanings evolve; words used "incorrectly" begin to take on the intended meaning of those who use it most: Bad vs. bad; cool vs. cool are just some simple examples... In time the accepted perception of its meaning changes or is altered. Just look in the dictionary for evidence of this. There are not only numbered definitions of various words, but archaic meaning/s may be listed as well.
I am constantly pointing out the difference between democratic and Democrat, and the historical vs. contemporary definition of conservative and liberal. Few of us want others to define or label us. We should think hard before defining ourselves with fadish, limited, archaic or mistaken terminology. Ignorance is not bliss.
Language is not static; it is a living thing, a powerful tool, and a formidable weapon. Know whereof ye speak - knowledge is power.
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| It's only words, and words are all I have...... |
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