How does a word like "reactionary", with its known semantic, come into the language?

Question

And what are the implications? Is "reacting" the same as calmly thinking? It reacting cerebral, as we understand the term? Or is it more cerebellar, more base; more responsive to the animal emotions? (I always anticipate hostile answers from the teens regarding cogent questions like this one. I suspect it evokes, within them, a kind of humiliation. So, only ALL self-respecting answers will surprise me this time.)

Answer 1

I have always viewed the term reactionary as in "reacting in a way that is explosive". (My own definition.) I don't think I have ever thought about the actual root of the word. However I do agree with the second part of your definition - base, animalistic. Of course, to react means an act must take place, so I would think that being one who reacts and being reactionary are quite different. It would depend on the situation. I can react to a news story that upsets or disturbs me. I am being reactionary if I angrily defend my point of view to someone who does not share it.
Does that make sense?

Answer 2

My opinion.
Reason; for most people is counterintuitive. Reacting is the essence of their emotion and they act accordingly probably because they have not mastered their emotions.

The responses from the teens on here... They are being defensive. Too wrapped up in the emotions of something that they think that they understand, yet havent even begun to foster true understanding of how the world operates.

Answer 3

Ever read the dictionary's definition of "Terrorism?"

Moreover, notice how the Native American word "Savage" was once used against the word "Patriot" and now "Terrorist." These simply relate to what side you're on.

and since when is America not a Republic, for which our nation was founded? Bush thinks we're a Democracy. Do I salute the flag or not? I'm "confused."

Answer 4

Obviously it's a loaded word. I feel an "reactionary" is someone who allows those who disagree with his/her views to cloud their own thinking. For example same-sex marriage opponents become rabid over this one point when same-sex marriage is always going to involve only a few people. So instead of concerning themselves with the overall objectives of social conservatism, they're worried about what Elton John does.

Answer 5

"Reactionary" has a political meaning. For example, politicians on the right got all worked up about Terri Schiavo, to the point of Jeb Bush debasing himself by ordering her feeding tube reinserted.

Answer 6

Why not you ask question in intelligible english