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I am a great lover of linguistic erudition, and in that context many of the more obscure words are actually a form of shorthand that captures the meaning and context of an idea without having to read through paragraphs of explanatory waffle. 'Solipsism', one of Will's words, is a fine example. In my view the use, or lack thereof, of such words is a true measure of the intellectual striving of any society. Such shorthand words arise in the first place out of linguistic need......the ideas being conveyed are actually being used regularly enough to warrant a word. When obscure words become increasingly obscure, it is a sure sign that the longhand renditions are not being used either.......and that society has become increasingly dumbed down.
Permalink Mon, 23 Apr 2012 15:45:58 UTC | #936715