Initial Response Language, Power, and Freedom

Language and power are closely related. Many people, like politicians, use language as a means not only to deliver their point of view, but also to persuade others to have that same point of view. Politicians use their language and speeches to gain support or power. Therefore, language is used to gain power. If language is used in an effective, skilled manner, it has the potential to spark movements, challenge the status quo, and make long lasting impacts. Think back in history - Jonathan Edwards, colonial preacher, delivered one of the most famous speeches ever: "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," that to this day is widely read and studied. Edwards use of compelling language helped to initiate The Great Awakening and encouraged thousands of Christians to practice their religion more fervidly. Other influential sermons were given during this period and they all contributed to the Great Awakening. It was these speeches, with carefully crafted language, that gained power for the movement - proving that language really does gain power.

Language also has the ability to liberate. Not everyone has wealth, not everyone has great jobs, and not everyone has the same privileges, but everyone does have their voices and freedom of speech. Everyone has the ability to use language and when used right, it can can break the bondage of oppression and aid in freeing people. Martin Luther King Jr. gave powerful speeches, like "I Have a Dream", to fuel the civil rights movement that helped blacks gain an equal place in society.