We’re at a gathering of professionals…
Some present find some of the language challenging. It doesn’t fit with their culture. They would like some of the words to be changed. They want met at their map of the world… Make what you’re saying fit our understanding, thank you very much.
You can’t help feeling though that the value would then be lost, or at least diluted. Comfort zones would be left safely intact.
Now we’re not talking here about words that would be widely regarded as offensive. No, it’s a more subtle objection to vocabulary that reflects different values and beliefs; words which reflect a different culture, a slightly different take on an area of professional work.
It becomes rather obvious…
Limit the language and you limit the conversation.
Open up to different words and you gain new learning.