It is rather poetic that Judeo-Christian’s holy book describes creation as beginning with “the word.” Language is intrinsically part of who we are as human beings. Actually, many believe that it is what separates mankind from the inferior plane of primitive animals.

Evolving along with technology, it is safe to say that language is a tool that has helped mankind create its “now” reality.

Through communication we “relate to others and express ourselves” says the Sarah Teniente, linguist and instructor at Madison College. She goes on saying that: “It’s also how we show allegiance to specific groups — like friends, family, people who come from where you are from, professionals in a specific field, etc.  The more ways we have to communicate who we are, the better. We are multifaceted beings. The fact that we can express that with just language is amazing.”

However, is it truly possible to fully communicate individual experience in a society strained by conflict?

Language is limited and cannot transfer the totality of one’s experience to another.

Teniente gives us some insight: “I don’t think there is a politically correct language, but people do associate language, pronunciation and vocabulary with their preconceived ideas of who they think people are.”

In a clear voice, she continues by saying “If you really believe in equality, then you should take care not to use language that demeans other people” which simply describes what is politically incorrect.

Communication starts as a personal monologue with ourselves and then becomes a dialogue with the world. If our monologues are about hate, consequently, that hate will be communicated to the world.

My last question is how can we improve communication universally?

Our linguist’s response is straightforward: “Be kind to each other.”