It is possible that swearing may increase your credibility, see Credibility from Vulgarity (October 2021) and Crass Credibility (December 2023). But, society is generally polite, and it is reasonable to question When is Profanity Appropriate (April 2017). In essence, it seems profanity is gaining acceptance and persistence. Some uses are admittedly funny, and the argument can be made that such words are sometimes poignant.
One of the funniest legal films of all time, From the Hip (De Laurentis, 1987) features an intense legal argument over the engagement of a profanity to describe one of the litigants. There is discussion and debate, but the protagonist (Robin) contends his preferred profanity is "the only word that accurately describes the man. ... Everybody thinks he's an _________."
Opposing counsel challenges the use of the term, leading to the following soliloquy:
Jo Ann: I object. Are you saying the president of a bank can't articulate his thoughts without using profanity?Robin 'Stormy' Weathers: What I'm saying, sir, is that there aren't many words to describe the particular slime that your client oozes.Jo Ann: Objection!
An in-depth legal debate ensues. It turns out the two lawyers had staged the whole obscenity debate in that plot, but funny nonetheless.
The latest news, however, is that swearing is good for your health. Remember when eggs were good for you? Or, when they were bad for you? Science and studies have steered to and from a number of things over the years: bacon, beef tallow, etc., etc. But swearing?
Time magazine reports that science now tells us that "Cursing induces what’s called hypoalgesia, or decreased sensitivity to pain." We can tolerate discomfort, frustration, and more for a longer period if we utter "curse word(s)" while we do so. They are more helpful to us than "a more neutral word." To be fair, many curse words are fairly neutral; some are downright meaningless.
Beyond enduring pain, Time claims you can "improve in exercise performance" with the utterance of a good swear word. Somehow, vulgarity brings confidence and commitment?
There is indicia from a European study that seemingly supports that swearing can help you regulate your emotions. It is not clear if you must swear in a European language to enjoy the benefit. Ever wonder why the first words ever learned in a foreign language are expletives? Anyway, there is some degree of release or catharsis from screaming an expletive at a passing motorist who cannot even hear you.
One psychology professor says we should "think of swear words as being like a box of tools." They can be strategically employed to benefit us. This may be in the release of frustration of the "breaking (of) social taboos" or in establishing camaraderie and connection with others (let's all swear together).
All that said, the authors are not "all in" for swearing. They caution that some social situations, interactions, and relationships may remain poor venues for swearing. There is some suggestion that questions remain of "swearing etiquette" (Emily Post is spinning in her grave), "social hierarchy," and 'power dynamics." Yes, it is more appropriate for some to swear than others.
So, we are confronted with the epiphanic conclusion that our suppression of our vulgarity has been self-limiting and even harmful. Apparently, it is good for us to devolve into the profane and offensive. That said, stay tuned for the next report that switches direction and tells us swearing is bad. But, in the meantime, shout it out while science is on your side.
$#TE^RE&*(!
Who knows, it might just build your credibility - or make you a pop star! Or it might get your posts blocked on Linked?
