Linguagem politicamente (in)correta: os desafios postos pelas mudanças sociais, neologismos e seus reflexos jurídicos

Abstract

This work aims to reflect on the linguistic changes that have occurred in recent decades, the result of social evolution, the advancement of identity guidelines and minorities, groups that have come to make themselves heard and demand their inclusion in all spaces, including the linguistic one. The adoption of non-sexist, inclusive and neutral language by social agents. The deconstruction of racist terms and expressions naturalized for too long. The reframing of our relationship with our pets. All these issues are interrelated to the aspect or movement that is called, ironically by some, “political correctness”. To understand the ambiguity of this term, try to bring up its origin, the political controversies, the appropriate and specific currents; find out what its effects are in the linguistic field. Subsequently, observe the extent to which language considered politically correct and incorrect reaches institutions and how it has had repercussions in the legal environment, especially when confronted with the fundamental right to freedom of expression. Finally, some cases are brought up that, within the scope of the Supreme Cort, have already led some Ministers to look into the topic. And, to give you an idea of how the topic is the focus of global reflections, some terms and expressions in other languages are presented, which have been or are being changed and replaced to adapt to new social demands. From the study it is concluded that the operator, or to choose some, the exerciser of Law, as guarantor of fundamental rights must remain attentive to all these issues and with an open mind to the sociolinguistic developments of an increasingly plural society.