The Importance Of Language In Politics

Introduction

George Orwell, the author of dystopian novel Nineteen Eighty-Four once said that “if thought corrupts language, language can also corrupt thought” (Orwell, 1949). This statement not only emphasizes the importance of thought and language, but also the power and influence language has on the average human mindset. Due to the increase in globalization, knowledge and mass communication, there are now different expressions and forms of language that are seen in the modern world through social media and speech. As Orwell mentioned, what we think can be expressed by what we speak to others, and what we speak to others can sway thought. Potent language is considered powerful as it can stimulate emotions and shift thought (Thomas & Wareing, 1999). Different people can be manipulated and favor certain ways of delivery, tone in language and specific words due to their varying backgrounds and ideologies.

By manipulating language, politicians have been able to influence views, ambitions and fears of the public to the extent that causes people to accept false statements as true postulates (Thomas & Wareing, 1999). In the political world, language can be molded and enhanced in order to appeal to the psychology of the public. Two political figures that very much present and are rising up to become the most important political figures are Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump. It is important to note that Clinton is Democratic, which means a more liberal and diplomatic and Trump is Republican, which means a more idealistic approach on politics and global