Is the Ban on ‘Brainstorm’ as ‘Thought Shower’ Excessive Political Correctness?

For those who advocate for removing certain terminology in the name of political correctness, the banning of concepts like 'brainstorm' in favor of 'thought shower' can seem like an overreaction. Many argue that changing words for the sake of politically correct language is not necessary and can sometimes trivialize meaningful discussions.

Why the Concern?

Some have expressed concerns over the word 'brainstorm,' believing it to be a form of political correctness gone too far. Many others, however, see the ban as unnecessary and an exaggeration. The term 'thought shower' hasn’t entered my vocabulary, and it's unlikely it ever will.

Historical Context

The issue first came to the forefront in the mid-to-late 2000s, when some individuals became concerned that 'brainstorm' might be considered offensive to people with epilepsy. A study conducted by an epilepsy charity found that more than 90% of the individuals with epilepsy did not find it offensive. This information suggests that the concern was misplaced and ultimately, the word 'brainstorm' remains a common part of the English lexicon.

The Impact of Misplaced Concern

The movement to ban 'brainstorm' led to several stories in the press, which generally highlighted the supposed issue. However, not much was actually 'banned,' and the term is still widely used in professional environments like offices and meetings.

The Lingering Effects

The narrative of 'political correctness gone too far' continues to circulate, fueled by the perception that certain terms have been arbitrarily banned. The use of the word 'ban' itself is often exaggerated, with phrases like 'LOONY LEFTIES BAN CHRISTMAS!!' suggesting a hyperbole that doesn't reflect the actual reality.

The Need for Balance

While it's important to be mindful of how our language can impact others, it's also crucial to maintain a degree of common sense. In essence, what we need is a balance between sensitivity and practicality. The term 'thought shower' is unnecessary and trivializes the practice of ideation.

Why 'Thought Shower' Is an Ineffective Substitution

The idea behind 'thought shower' is to provide a softer, more palatable term. However, it fails to convey the same sense of creative collaboration that 'brainstorming' does. Brainstorming requires a dynamic exchange of ideas, a process that a 'thought shower' does not encapsulate.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the ban on 'brainstorm' in favor of 'thought shower' is often seen as an overreaction. The term 'thought shower' doesn’t have a place in most people's vocabularies and has no real value in terms of inclusivity or sensitivity. The concern over political correctness should be balanced with practicality and common sense. Language evolves, but so should our understanding of what is truly necessary in its evolution.