The words we use to describe war and foreign policy matter, and they have far reaching implications for policymaking.
From George Orwell’s critique of the language of totalitarian regimes to today, discussions of war and foreign policy have been full of dehumanizing euphemisms, bloodless jargon, little-known government acronyms, and troubling metaphors that hide warfare’s damage.
Think of “collateral damage” (civilian deaths), “overseas contingency operations” (wars), and “bug splat” (killing human beings with drone-fired missiles).
This guide aims to help people write and talk about war and foreign policy more accurately, more honestly, and in ways people outside the elite Washington, DC foreign policy “blob” can understand.
We encourage you to use this guide, to share it with others, and to adapt it as necessary to local contexts. The guide should be especially helpful to journalists and other writers, podcasters and vloggers, policy analysts, teachers, scholars, and people involved in public education projects.
Recent Posts
‘ICE Has Gone Rogue’: Khanna Demands Arrest, Prosecution of Jonathan Ross for Murder of Renee Good
Take Action Now “We need to hold ICE accountable and we need to uphold human rights in ICE facilities. This is the time for Americans to speak up.”……
Right Message, Wrong Messengers: A Brief History Of Oil And U.S. Empire In Iran
Take Action Now Since 1979, the U.S. has pursued policies aimed at ensuring the failure of the Iranian Revolution.By Eric Ross, Z Network Multiple…
Trump Intensifies Threats Against Cuba
Take Action Now The US president warned Cuban authorities that if they do not engage in dialogue, it will soon be “too late.” Cuban authorities have…
‘Uninvestable’: Oil Execs Rebuff Trump’s Demands For $100bn Investment In Venezuela
Take Action Now The US Energy Secretary denies ‘stealing’ Venezuelan oil, despite a plan to hold revenues in offshore accounts under US…