I've just listened to a very interesting programme on BBC Radio 4 about the social and political power of language. The programme ("PC RIP?") considered the impact of political correctness (PC) in language and, as suggested by the title, pondered on whether the PC "movement" was over.
This programme could be seen as a kind of radio "essay": it has a strong introduction and conclusion. The central voice of the author (Clive Anderson) uses evidence from experts to develop the "essay". Notice the way this evidence is weaved into his exploration of the issue. How does he set it up and/or reflect on it? Also, the title "PC RIP?" is short and snappy and gives a very clear indication of what the documentary is going to be about. The use of the question mark is very important. Can you see why?
Anyway, if you get a chance, listen to the programme again. You can use the "Listen again" function on the BBC Radio 4 website to find the programme (it's on the left-hand-side menu on the page of the following link: http://www.bbc.co.uk/radio4/pcrip/). I think that they take the programmes down after a while, so listen while you can.
As always, if you do listen to it and have any comments, please post them. I'm always intrigued by the power that lies behind words.
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