The language called “politically correct” has its origins in the US military, 1970s.

The language called “politically correct” has its origins in the US military, 1970s.
In response to the Kent State massacre by National Guard, it was the start of training for de-escalation rather than confrontation.
Part of de-escalation involved the choice of words, particularly important in moments of crisis where a single misunderstood word can mean the difference between life and death.
It also tied in nicely to the already existing wordplay games of the us military to beef up reports and obscure what money was being spent on.
From military it went to corporations, as military and corporate training was often one and the same. and found a home in human resource departments.
From military and corporations it found its way into academic in the early 1980s as part of the corporate-speak.
It is very useful for diplomacy if you take the time to pay attention. But like many things, most people do it poorly and it shows.
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