“We must be careful in using words because the words we use can create polarization, just like the groups that take action. Words have power and also carry actions. The language we use also has different meanings in different groups,” said Michael R. Quinlan during the Wednesday Forum held on Wednesday (26/02) at Classroom 307, 3rd Floor, Graduate School Building, UGM.
Michael is a Clinical Professor from Baylor University who has been an international guest lecturer at the Indonesian Consortium for Religious Studies (ICRS) UGM for several years. He specializes in the relationship between religion, ethics, and society. His work focuses on migration, interfaith dialogue, and the role of language in shaping beliefs, identities, and community boundaries.
Michael was the speaker at the Wednesday Forum event organized by the Study Program of Religion and Cross-Cultural Studies or the Center for Religious and Cross-Cultural Studies (CRCS), Graduate School, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM). This event is a regular CRCS activity to provide a space for discussions on various topics by inviting speakers from activists and researchers. In addition to students and faculty, the event is also open to the public.
On this occasion, Michael raised the topic of how language can function to divide and strengthen the dynamics of a particular group. In the modern world, language is no longer just a collection of words but can carry heavy meanings and ideologies. Michael explained that every term or word we use, whether consciously or unconsciously, seems to indicate where we stand. This choice of words becomes more significant when there are elements of politics and religion involved. This phenomenon is referred to as modern shibboleths.
As the discussion progressed, it was concluded that we need to consider the use of language more responsibly in daily life. We are urged to be more aware of the words we choose, especially in contexts where there are political and religious tensions.
Author: Asti Rahmaningrum