New Language Guidelines in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology: A Step Towards Inclusivity
Language is a powerful tool that shapes our perceptions and attitudes towards the world. It influences how we think, communicate, and relate to one another. In the fields of ecology and evolutionary biology (EEB), language is especially important because it affects how we understand and talk about the natural world. However, some language can perpetuate biases and exclude certain groups, leading to a lack of diversity and inclusion in these fields. To address this issue, the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) Language Project has come out with a list of problematic words and guidelines for more inclusive language.
The EEB Language Project is a grassroots effort that allows anyone to submit problematic language through an online form for consideration to be added to the repository. The project began with a conversation on Twitter, according to this phys.org article, showing the power of social media to spark meaningful change. The repository contains a list of terms that have been deemed problematic and offers alternative language choices. For example, the use of "man" and "woman" is discouraged because it is highly anthropomorphic and biases towards men or male traits. Instead, "male" or "female" or "human" is recommended. However, even the terms "male" and "female" can be considered problematic because they reinforce societally-imposed ideas of a sex binary, emphasising cisnormative and heteronormative views. "Sperm-producing" or "egg-producing" or "XY/XX individual" are suggested alternatives.
Another example is the use of "mother" and "father," which are considered to perpetuate a nonuniversal heteronormative and cisnormative view of the parenting and birthing process. Instead, the project suggests using "parent," "egg-donor," or "sperm-donor." In addition, terms such as "citizen science" are also considered problematic because they exclude non-citizens, and alternatives such as "participant science" or "community science" are suggested.
The EEB Language Project's guidelines have received both support and criticism. Richard Dawkins, the famed atheist author, was quoted saying that new guidelines can only be met with "contemptuous ridicule" by Fox News. However, it is important to remember that the EEB Language Project is a grassroots effort that aims to create a more inclusive and welcoming environment in EEB fields. By addressing problematic language, the project hopes to promote diversity and inclusivity in these fields.
At the JAMA Network, the inclusive language guidelines on sex and gender are also being revised. For instance, the use of "pregnant person" rather than "pregnant woman" has been put into action. It is essential for all fields to take a critical look at their language and make efforts to be more inclusive, especially in science where language can shape our understanding of the natural world.
In conclusion, the EEB Language Project's new guidelines are a positive step towards inclusivity in ecology and evolutionary biology. While there may be criticism and pushback, it is important to keep in mind the project's goals of promoting diversity and inclusivity in EEB fields. By making language more inclusive, we can create a more welcoming and diverse community in science.