Adjusting to Modernity in American English

Explore the dynamic nature of language evolution in this 51-minute talk by John McWhorter at The Aspen Institute. Delve into the inherent flexibility of language and examine how modern American society is driving significant linguistic changes. Investigate the shifting landscape of euphemisms, profanity, and pronoun usage, challenging traditional perspectives on language conservation. Gain insights into why embracing linguistic adaptations is crucial in today's rapidly evolving communication landscape, despite our innate resistance to change. Discover how these transformations reflect broader societal shifts and the importance of remaining open to new forms of expression in American English.