They’re only words – but they matter more than ever

What’s Gone Wrong With The Language Of Politics?

Sarah Palin: contributing to the erosion of standards in public language PIc: REX

Politics: Enough Said: What’s Gone Wrong With The Language Of Politics?, By Mark Thompson, The Bodley Head, €34

‘Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” This children’s rhyme aims to persuade us of the idea that words, no matter how vitriolic, will never physically hurt us.

This may well be the case in the playground, but the effect of words in the political and public arena suggest ...