From the course: Using Gender Inclusive Language
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Move away from defaults and archetypes
From the course: Using Gender Inclusive Language
Move away from defaults and archetypes
- Words that contain strong gendered archetypes or defaults can lead to a sense of exclusion. If you want to review this material, please view chapter three. Sometimes a word has an implicit meaning that reflects outdated or negative associations. I call these historical associations archetypes. To be more inclusive, try moving away from archetypes to use more expansive descriptions. Archetypes may be difficult to see as the associations are so firmly embedded in our consciousness. One strategy I use to move beyond archetypes is to stop using a single word to describe a role, person or value. For example, when I say the word genius I am likely to evoke the picture of a particular kind of person identifying as a man. If however, I say someone who brings people together to spark creativity and champions great ideas from everyone, I paint a more nuanced picture in which many can see themselves or be seen. Expanding the…
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