Language, Gender, and Professional Writing
Theoretical Approaches and Guidelines for Nonsexist Usage
- Authors: Francine Wattman Frank, Paula A. Treichler, with others
- Pages: viii & 341 pp.
- Published: 1989
- ISBN: 9780873521796 (Paperback)
“Along with offering practical solutions to daily communication problems, the collection provides the theoretical framework for us to enter intelligently into the debate about language and usage and to analyze how we, as librarians, may also effect change.”
—College and Research Libraries
A landmark book on language and sexism, Language, Gender, and Professional Writing explores biased usage in depth—its origins, its effect, the related controversies—and provides sensible and sensitive guidelines for nondiscriminatory speech and writing. Designed for scholars, teachers, students, professionals, and readers concerned with language, this book demonstrates the importance and value of avoiding biased language and stimulates its readers to think of language as a rich resource offering many alternatives to objectionable usage.
“This unique book, which represents the best scholarship in the field and provides the most detailed analytical guide to nonsexist usage to date, is recommended to scholars, teachers, and students in all disciplines.”
—Choice
“Although many existing guidelines for nonsexist language provide alternatives for authors, few match the sophistication of this book in addressing the problems in attempting to rid scholarly writing of sexist expression.”
—Book Research Quarterly
“Frank and Treichler have dealt admirably with a complex subject. . . . Their explanations of why certain language is biased, their suggestions for rewordings that do not distort the content or style, and their argument that such changes are in the spirit of academic freedom rather than in violation of it are lucid and reasonable.”
—South Central Review
“For the grumblers who resist on the grounds that non-sexist wording is hopelessly awkward, the authors provide extensive guidelines for acceptable language. In suggesting creative alternatives Frank and Treichler clearly illustrate that language is a limitless resource for anyone who regards writing as a craft.”
—Content for Canadian Journalists
“After reading this book, students will realize that one need not be an ardent feminist to understand that the language of our culture needs to be changed. Students, and other readers as well, will become convinced that each individual, no matter of what race, gender, nationality, or sexual preference, has the right to be respected and recognized in language and communication.”
—Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
