From Name-Calling to "Sticks and Stones"

Lakoff's excerpt, "The Power of Words in Wartime," describes the influence of language on the psychology of citizens and soldiers to create an acceptable atmosphere in which to wage war. Sadly, the true power of these descriptive words is evident in the willingness and even eagerness to commit acts of violence against other human beings. One thing the passage failed to touch on I think is the power of the psychology of the speaker on the words that he speaks. One's personal relationships, religious and familial background, social status, education, national and societal concepts, and even the whimsical emotions that can well-up suddenly when triggered all determine the words that one uses in any situation. Overall the passage fit my reading style because it was less concrete and more about the abstract idea of language and the dark depths of the mind in times of great fear and violence.

The description of the "Persecution of the Jews," was of a completely different style, but nonetheless very informative. It was more about the actions which stem from social perceptions of a people, in this case, the Jews. I learned of many actual occurences that represented an intense hatred for this group, fueled by indifference and blatant fear from those who could have risen against this movement and changed the bloody history that ensued. I did not gain much from this passage though, for it felt more like a list of dates and events than a comprehensive telling of the atrocities that occured; that is to say it seemed more concerned about the outward facts than the people behind the action, inaction and great suffering. Then again, I suppose the objective of the passage (to inform the reader of the events leading up to the well known historical atrocity) was very much achieved, and i do appreciate that. :)