Apparently “code words” keep popping up all over, and are abetted by the reluctance to keep the definition of words to its real original meaning. We have all seen the transformation of words like “gay” (which used to mean “frivolous” or “joyful”) or “faggot” (which used to be a bundle of sticks tied together for kindling wood), into pejoratives relating to the sexual orientation of certain individuals.
Perhaps lack of a common accepted vocabulary is what is keeping communication restricted. Words shape perceptions, after all, and by either not understanding, or deliberately misunderstanding, the other person’s statements is what leads to Charlie Rangel’s total incomprehension of just what a conservative is. Words like “preservation of the Constitutional principles” mean nothing to a person who has never discerned the meanings of the words of that document.
George Orwell was both highly prescient and an excellent student of the history of humanity.
Years ago, Red Skelton did an excellent job of parsing the words of the Pledge of Allegiance, including the words “under God”, with the observation that some day, somebody is going to interpret the Pledge as a prayer, and seek redress for the offense that had been imposed upon the sensibilities.
We are there now.
I am not aware of his “Pledge” with the “under God” part. Could you give me a link to that possibly please?