Who decides what bad words are?

Question

I was wondering who makes the decision on what words are bad words? example, F... & so on

Answer 1

I think society does, based upon how the word is used.

Answer 2

There is no such thing as bad language, only inappropriate language.

Language is only inappropriate because it may offend the person that hears it, or may be unsuitable for the context in which it is spoken. For example a conversation about dog faeces may be appropriate when discussing fouled pavements, but inappropriate whilst enjoying a meal! What are traditionally known as swear words generally have a sexual content and this is why they may offend, especially where children are concerned. Racist slander can also be considered offensive.

Who decides, therefore? The person that hears it, and some are more sensitive than others!

Answer 3

If you are referring to what words are considered "bad" in everyday conversation, I don't think there is much more than general perception that dictates what is "polite" and what is "rude" or "offensive" at any given time.

If you are more specifically wondering what makes saying a word on T.V. a punishable offense by the FCC, the FCC uses a three-prong test established by the Spureme Court. To be "obscene" material that's punishable, the following benchmarks must be met:

- An average person, applying contemporary community standards, must find that the material, as a whole, appeals to the prurient interest;

- The material must depict or describe, in a patently offensive way, sexual conduct specifically defined by applicable law; and

- The material, taken as a whole, must lack serious literary, artistic, political, or scientific value.

Consequently, the standard is fluid & applied on a case-by-case basis.

"Indecent" material on broadcast television or radio (i.e. not cable or satellite or some other subscription service) may not be banned but can be restricted. The FCC defines "indecent" language as “language or material that, in context, depicts or describes, in terms patently offensive as measured by contemporary community standards for the broadcast medium, sexual or excretory organs or activities.”

Answer 4

I believe the only time a word is bad is if it does not relate the idea which is meant very well. If you mean a swear or cuss no word formed from the same letters can be any worse than any other as long as both convey the idea

Answer 5

good question. I mean, if you say bad words frequently, they are just like any other word. And there is freedom of speech so you can say whatever you want.

Answer 6

the same people that decide what the good words are

Answer 7

Positive people.

Answer 8

The speed with which you turn red or would like to clock the source it comes from.

Answer 9

The media.

Answer 10

there is a little man in your head called a conscience and he decides