The words we use are important, they can potentially heal or harm, connect or divide. Politicians are unfortunately adept at using words to further their agenda, to stir discontent at the wrong target and mainstream media use language even more effectively.
Part of what I would like to explore within my PhD is how we can use language to connect and collaborate. How we can find common language in order to work together more effectively. Build relationships. Build trust.
Language, how we use words to express ourselves, changing definitions, connotations … everything has fascinated me since a child. However, it’s only since undergoing months of therapy (including cognitive behavioural therapy – CBT) that I’ve fully appreciated how the words we use have such an important effect on ourselves and on others. Especially the words we use to ourselves.