Society is the living laboratory of the social scientist. It is a dynamic space where hypotheses are conceived, behaviours observed, and the complex interplay between individuals, systems, and ideologies meticulously examined. The canvas is vast and ever-evolving, offering boundless opportunities to explore the nuances of human behaviour, perceptions, attitudes, and the narratives that shape our collective consciousness. As someone grounded in the discipline of linguistics, I place language at the center of my inquiries. In a globalised world fractured by terrorism, extremism, and growing intolerance, it becomes imperative to examine how language contributes to or exacerbates human suffering. Words do more than reflect reality; they shape and construct it. A single phrase can carry ideological weight, influence public perception, and reinforce long-standing inequalities. Take, for example, the phrase “Muslim terrorist.” This label doesn’t merely describe an individual’s act of violence; it implicitly ties that act to an entire religion, casting a shadow of suspicion and fear over a global community. Such linguistic shortcuts feed harmful generalisations, bolster stereotypes, and contribute to discrimination and systemic injustice.

Likewise, associating someone’s success with their nationality or religion, such as celebrating a ‘German tennis player’ does more than highlight talent; it glorifies the broader identity of that person’s background. While such praise may seem innocuous, it reinforces the idea that certain identities are inherently superior. Conversely, negative labels assigned to specific groups unjustly vilify entire communities. The point here is simple: a good act is a good act, regardless of who performs it. A bad act is bad, no matter the doer’s race, religion, or nationality. Once we stop attaching morality to identity, we can begin to unravel the biases that perpetuate social injustice. This understanding is especially crucial for the Muslim community, which continues to face disproportionate scrutiny and marginalisation around the world.

Women, too, face a unique form of linguistic injustice. Labels such as ‘homemaker,’ ‘working woman,’ ‘emotional,’ or ‘drama queen’ have long served to diminish women’s intellect, autonomy, and potential. These terms often reflect and reinforce traditional gender roles suggesting that certain traits are exclusive to women, when in reality, they are human traits shared across all genders. While these labels might apply to some, they are equally applicable to men, yet men are rarely described in such limiting terms. The issue lies not in the words themselves, but in their selective and gendered use. Language has long been complicit in maintaining gender hierarchies, and it’s time we become more conscious of its power.