In the article entitled “Words Don’t Mean What They Mean” written by Steven Pinker, the author asserted that there are appropriate ways to deliver verbal messages through careful selection of words. In one’s personal experience, in conjunction with observation of conversations within different social circles, I have actually affirmed that the statements contended by Pinker were indeed true. I hereby contend that people who have had the privilege of gaining formal education are provided with the effective communication techniques to deliver words, sentences, or messages, in manners appropriate for the situation, audience, or context. As such, the information gained from the article assist students positively through the lessons learned about effectively designing statements or messages, acknowledging the work of others, as well as being made aware of controversial issues that need to be addressed through careful selection of words.
There have been instances affirming the appositeness of reframing statements as requests rather than orders or demands. Students should acknowledge that by framing statements in requests form, as contrasted to demand or order form, the more effective the statements are in persuading a call for action. For instance, the common and simple statement of requesting salt while having a meal with friends, family members, or during formal dining has always regarded rephrasing the request of passing the salt is more appropriate than ordering that it be passed. In addition, even an old lady who seeks assistance in crossing the street, would be obliged if the statement was designed as “I would be very grateful, if you would please assist me in crossing the street?” as opposed to “Help me cross the street.” Contemporary society has actually shunned at people giving direct orders, especially in situations outside the work or academic setting where roles between superiors (educators) and subordinates (students) warrant the demand.
Concurrently, the manner by which society regards controversial issues, such as openly borrowing written works of others could be classified as violating academic integrity and therefore is outrightly rude and unbecoming. Rather than copying and pasting materials from previously written works, students are always advised to paraphrase and cite appropriate sources, as consistent with academic standards of professionalism. Pinker emphasized that there is a need to discern what we really want to say and how to say it. As disclosed, “words let us say the things we want to say and also things we would be better off not having said. They let us know the things we need to know, and also things we wish we didn't” . Therefore, proper and appropriate citation and referencing assist students comply with academic integrity by knowing what is meant by words spoken or unspoken.
In addition, some conservatist societies also find it very disconcerting for students to ask or borrow money from just anybody. Financial matters are usually discussed only among family members and designing the most appropriate words is usually being undertaken to ensure that the borrower would not offend the potential lender, in anyway. As such, the following statements were also observed to be taken into consideration: “would you happen to have extra funds to spare?”; rather than a rude remark of asserting “give me money”. Student are made to understand that there are chains of authority or command, as well as roles in relationships that warrant understanding what words to say and the manner of saying them.
In sum, the lessons learned about effectively selecting words assist in the delivery of messages in the most accurate manner. Through frequent conversation with people across all walks of life, students are made to react and respond positively to aid in sustaining smooth interpersonal relationships that could last through time.
Reference
Pinker, S. (2013). Words Don't Mean What They Mean. In P. Eschholz, A. Rosa, & V. Clark, Lanuage Awareness: Readings for College Writers (pp. 112-113). Bedford/St. Martin's.
