Question

First read about the incident in the NY Times article David Howard. Answer question 1,2 below.

The denotative meaning of a word is the dictionary definition. A connotative meaning is what people think of or feel when they hear a word based on past associations or experiences.

The denotative meanings of the word niggardly include: 1. Very reluctant to give or spend anything. 2. Very small or inadequate in quantity. The connotative meaning may contain some association to the racial slur, which sounds similar, but has a completely different history and denotative meaning.

In 1999 David Howard, a top aid of the Washington Mayor who is Caucasian, used the word niggardly in a meeting. He said, “I will have to be niggardly with this fund because it's not going to be a lot of money.” Many people were offended by Howard’s use of the word niggardly. Ultimately he resigned.

Think about the word and the particular event, and then post your responses to these questions.

1. Do you think it was right for Howard to be pressured into resigning? Support your response.

2. How did language and critical thinking figure into this situation?

Answer 1

1. In my view, it was right to pressure Howard into resigning. Although his use of the word was not to target any racial minority, his choice of word does reflect stereotypical associations. To equate miserliness with certain ethnic groups is wrong in itself and for a top aid of an organisation to express it public is even more unacceptable. There are several words that Howard could have used to express his view, but to choose one that is linked to a racial slur is not acceptable.

2. Language is primary how we express ourselves to other people. When we use language that is insensitive and inappropriate, it is reflective of our thoughts and opinions. All this is subject to critical thinking as others attempt to comprehend what our words indicate and how they should be interpreted.