Be aware of what you are saying: ‘retard’ is not ‘stupid’

Written by Joshua Das

The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines mental retardation as a “sub average intellectual ability equivalent to or less than an IQ of 70 that is accompanied by significant deficits in abilities (as in communication or self-care) necessary for independent daily functioning, is present from birth or infancy, and is manifested especially by delayed or abnormal development, by learning difficulties, and by problems in social adjustment.”

You hear it at school and on the streets. It’s seen on TV, it’s seen in the movies. It’s heard on the radio, and it’s read in books.

The word “retarded” was meant to describe people with the conditions Webster lists; however, it seems to have lost its meaning. Now for anything that can be described as ridiculous or unpleasant, we label it as “retarded.”

Although it might not seem like much, since it is used constantly, this is merely a gateway for the evolution of hateful speech, not to mention the insensitivity towards those who are mentally impaired.

The word “retard” has even spawned many spin-offs such as “celebutard” (famous stupid person), “debutard” (famous rich person who can’t handle money) and “e-tard” (someone not familiar with computers or technology).

Most people know individuals who are challenged. They may have a mental or physical illness. They may be injured, or they suffer from the many different problems of today. We should do our best to help them and not mock them.

“I think the word ‘retard’ should be used to emphasize a point, but people use it too leisurely,” senior Alfonso Bonilla said.

The word “retard” completely undermines the efforts made to prevent discrimination against those who suffer from mental illnesses. This word has such a strong negative connotation, that it gives a poor impression to those mentally disabled, who have little to no control over the situation.

Very few would actually use the word “retard” to label someone with a handicap. It’s unfitting as a noun and seems to be more of a term used betwixt friends. Try to remove this expression from your daily use, and be conscious of who you might offend.

1. Joan Carroll Says:
   March 28th, 2010 at 9:10 am

   Dear Joshua,

   Thank you so much for your sensitive article on how the word “retard” is commonly used amongst many people. I have heard it used to describe people that other people don’t like or approve of. Also, I have heard it used to describe situations or opinions of things in general. I find it so offensive, because my sister is retarded and autistic, my sister-in-law is retarded and has downs syndrome. Neither one of them have any control that they are disabled and when people use this “retard” term it is hurtful, because they are insulting me and my family. It is incredibly disrepectful, discriminatory and insensitive to use “retard” and make fun of disabled people. The ironic thing about this new fad is that many smart and intelligent people use this word and it just makes them look and sound ignorant. Disabled people would never be so cruel or intentionally hurt other people’s feelings in this way. Now you tell me, who is the better person?

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