Feb 15 • 04:30 UTC 🇪🇸 Spain El País

Pronoia, ‘flooding’, agnotology: when part of the population is left out of language

The article discusses how certain contemporary terms related to technology and social movements are often not understood by older generations, yet are part of everyday conversations for younger people.

The article explores the disconnection between generations regarding language and understanding of contemporary terms. It introduces the concept of 'pronoia,' which is a belief that others are conspiring for one's benefit and contrasts it with paranoia. The mention of former President Donald Trump raises the idea that he may exemplify this mindset. Additionally, the text highlights the rapid emergence of new terminology influenced by advancements in technology and shifting political landscapes, suggesting that many adults may struggle to grasp these evolving concepts.

A significant concern presented in the discussion is the growing gap in communication between generations, where adults may find themselves perplexed by vocabulary that has become second nature to younger individuals. An example provided is the term 'post-truth,' which emphasizes that feelings and emotional responses can outweigh objective facts in public discourse. The problem extends beyond mere vocabulary; it reflects deeper societal shifts influenced by technology and media.

The article recommends a collaborative approach to language comprehension, perhaps through tools like ChatGPT, to help bridge the gap between what is understood by different age groups. This initiative could foster better understanding and dialogue within society, addressing the challenges posed by rapidly changing language and the implications of such disparities on social interaction and political engagement.

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