What if calling someone stupid was a crime?

Introduction

In Lionel Shriver’s novel “Mania,” the narrative explores a dystopian America where language and social norms have drastically shifted. The story opens with a young boy, Darwin, being reprimanded for using the word “stupid,” highlighting the extreme measures society has taken to avoid offensive language.

Context of the Novel

The protagonist’s son, Darwin, faces disciplinary action at school for calling a classmate’s t-shirt “stupid.” This incident sets the stage for a broader commentary on societal changes and the implications of extreme political correctness.

Language and Social Norms

• The use of words like “stupid,” “dumb,” and “slow” is considered highly offensive.
• Even positive descriptors are scrutinized; for example, owning a book titled “My Brilliant Friend” could be seen as elitist.
• People opt for politically correct alternatives such as displaying “The Calumny of IQ” to avoid social backlash.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Emphasis

The novel indirectly touches upon several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by addressing issues related to education, equality, and social justice.

Quality Education (SDG 4)

1. Inclusive Education: The novel critiques the extreme measures taken to ensure inclusivity in education, questioning whether these measures truly serve their purpose.
2. Critical Thinking: The story raises concerns about the suppression of critical thinking and open dialogue in educational settings.

Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10)

1. Social Equality: By banning certain words and phrases, the society depicted in the novel aims to reduce social inequalities but may inadvertently create new forms of discrimination.
2. Freedom of Expression: The novel highlights the tension between promoting equality and preserving freedom of expression.

Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions (SDG 16)

1. Justice in Education: The disciplinary actions taken against Darwin reflect broader issues of justice and fairness within educational institutions.
2. Inclusive Societies: The novel questions whether the measures taken to create an inclusive society are effective or counterproductive.

Conclusion

Lionel Shriver’s “Mania” serves as a thought-provoking exploration of contemporary social issues, particularly those related to language, education, and equality. By examining these themes through the lens of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), we gain a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in creating a just and inclusive society.

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SDG Analysis of the Article

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

1. SDG 4: Quality Education
2. SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• SDG 4: Quality Education
  • Target 4.7: By 2030, ensure that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development, including among others through education for sustainable development and sustainable lifestyles, human rights, gender equality, promotion of a culture of peace and non-violence, global citizenship and appreciation of cultural diversity and of culture’s contribution to sustainable development.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
  • Target 10.2: By 2030, empower and promote the social, economic and political inclusion of all, irrespective of age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion or economic or other status.

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

• SDG 4: Quality Education
  • Indicator 4.7.1: Extent to which (i) global citizenship education and (ii) education for sustainable development, including gender equality and human rights, are mainstreamed at all levels in: (a) national education policies; (b) curricula; (c) teacher education; and (d) student assessment.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities
  • Indicator 10.2.1: Proportion of people living below 50 per cent of median income, by age, sex and persons with disabilities.

4. Findings Table

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Fuente: economist.com

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