The aim of the text is to explore the deeply connected connection between language, human and society, problematizing questions about the nature of language, its role as a bridge between human existence and the world, and how the social context shapes language patterns and spiritual superstructure. The paper starts from the consideration of language as a means of communication between people, that is, a key link between the individual and the community. The social dimension of language is further explored, focusing on the gender divide and how it affects language patterns. Here we will talk about a form of dogmatic language based on gender stereotypes and opposing gender-sensitive language that deals with the deconstruction of those stereotypes. The concluding part considers practical steps for implementing gender-sensitive language, that is, it asks the question of where to start the emancipation of language – in the academic community, politics, work environment, media or elsewhere. On the trail of that answer, the task of the text is to invite every citizen to think about the powerful influence of language on society and to think about its role in creating a better future.
This paper is part of the project “Online Academy for Gender Equality and the EU Integration Process” which is implemented in cooperation with the Heinrich Böll Foundation.
You can read the complete paper here, and the author is Nemanja Tubonjić, attendee of the Academy for Gender Equality and EU Integration in 2023.
