Swearing as a force for good

Abstract

Abstract This chapter considers the positive side of swearing. According to the studies of psychologist Richard Stephens and his colleagues, swearing can help people withstand pain because it increases emotional arousal. Moreover, swearing can also become an indication of intimacy between people. Meanwhile, broadcasting restrictions on swearing are often viewed as the outcome of a tug-of-war between those who value freedom of expression and conservatives who want to keep the airwaves clean. The chapter considers the pressure-valve view of swearing and the likelihood of using violence. It cites the concern of how swearing too much robs swear words of their power is a pretty commonly expressed objection to swearing, which only proves the value of swearing.