On the offensive: Prejudice in language past and present is a timely piece that aims to uncover veiled -isms, such as racism, sexism, and ageism, in everyday language. Early on and throughout the book, Karen Stollznow challenges readers to consider hidden meanings in language that hurt and offend, by demonstrating overlaps between linguistic oppression and other forms of discrimination. Although On the offensive brings forth a lengthy list of taboo words and phrases, Stollznow's goal is not to censor language; rather, it is to provide alternative terms that can be used instead to promote inclusion and the dignity of all people. In doing this, she provides readers with an expanded vocabulary rather than a restricted one.
In the introduction, ‘You can't say anything these days’, Stollznow acknowledges that although the past century has boasted advancements in ‘civil rights, women's rights, disability rights, and LGBTQ rights’, today's language continues to ‘reveal discriminatory attitudes and beliefs’ (32). To bring to light hidden prejudices in language, Stollznow spends a chapter each going into depth on such topics as race, gender, sexuality, religion, mental health, physical appearance, and age, explaining why common sayings go unnoticed by some, but are highly offensive to others. For example, in the chapter on physical appearance, Stollznow explains that saying ‘You're big, but you carry it well’ (404) may be intended as a compliment, but could be considered microaggressive because it implies that being larger in size and beautiful is an exception.
The book is notable for its breadth of content as well as the depth taken by Stollznow to convey earlier meanings of terms as well as their present-day meanings. She discusses the ‘euphemism treadmill’ (24), which describes the cyclical process of replacing one word with another because the former has taken on a pejorative meaning, only for the new word to become stigmatized later on. Stollznow acknowledges that the alternative and preferred words and phrases given in her book may eventually fall victim to the euphemism treadmill. This may leave some readers contemplating the long-term relevance of her book or questioning how to maintain political correctness amidst a rapidly changing vocabulary. Stollznow addresses this by proposing that readers seek advice from ‘human rights groups, advocates, and [other] stakeholders… in this regard’ (490).
On the offensive is an accessible read for a broad audience in a wide range of settings. The book is intended for use in professional settings such as workplaces and schools as well as in social settings like within families and communities. While words can be wielded as a ‘dangerous weapon’ (492), On the offensive shows that words can be tools for promoting solidarity, equality, and reconciliation instead.
