The Problem with Labels
One wouldn’t think that this question would need to be asked, but I’m asking it:
What is the use of labeling in our society?
Of course, I understand that the primary use of a label is to describe something. People use labels to convey some connection or correlation. Sometimes people also use labels as a means to generalize or disenfranchise a group of people.
This use of labeling needs to be addressed. Every year we see new labels come up and soon these labels are strewn into rhetoric. Easily the labels are simply accepted, because now everyone’s using them. But do you question this?
Where do you stand labeling someone?
What is it about the desire to feel the need to label someone? There is self-labeling and there is labeling another. What about the instances when one individual labels another as something that person doesn’t identify with.
Yes, some people have no issue with being labeled. This is not the focus of this discussion. Most of us know some people who identify with a group. They openly announce this - so I’m not referring to these instances. I’m referring to the instances when someone else imposes the label to diminish another individual in some way.
I’m talking about instances when someone labels as if they are the one to determine who that person is or should be. Who’s the judge and jury that determines a classification for the individual?
Think about it. When you, in particular, identify yourself as part of a group - do you prefer to categorize yourself? Or do you prefer to have someone else categorize you?
What if someone labeled you something that carries a negative connotation? Are you going to accept this as your label?
I bring this up to get a closer look at the language we use and how we can best communicate with each other as mutual members of a society. Is language being shaped to determine what authentic, compassionate communication looks like?
Do you think we should refrain from labeling someone, clustering them into a group that they don’t consider an accurate depiction of themselves?
When you label someone, do you see it as a reflection of yourself as someone who needs to label? I believe it is.