WATCH: Debating Pronouns with John McWhorter
Thursday, 3 April 2025 · 1 min read · Listen to the episode ↗
John McWhorter examines the evolving nature of pronouns, highlighting the discomfort this change can cause, similar to historical shifts in language. He discusses the transition from "thou" to "you," completed by the late 1700s, and emphasizes the current adoption of "they" as a singular pronoun. While the notes do not directly address AI, cryptocurrencies, or blockchain technology, understanding language evolution can inform discussions on human-computer interaction and digital communication in these fields.
John McWhorter discusses the significance of pronouns in language, emphasizing their role in creating "pronoun trouble." He highlights how changes in pronoun usage can feel dislocating for speakers, drawing a parallel to the historical shift from "thou" to "you" for singular usage, which faced complaints during its transition. When asked about the timeline of this change, McWhorter explains that it began in the 1600s and was largely completed by the end of the 1700s. He notes that we are currently experiencing a new evolution in pronoun usage, particularly with the adoption of "they" as a singular pronoun.
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