Changing the World with Words? Euphemisms in Climate Change Issues

Gilles Grolleau (), Naoufel Mzoughi, Deborah Peterson and Marjorie Tendero
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Deborah Peterson: Crawford School of Public Policy – Australian National University
Marjorie Tendero: ESSCA - ESSCA – École supérieure des sciences commerciales d'Angers = ESSCA Business School

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Abstract: Words matter when talking about climate change. They influence thinking and ultimately behaviors. We contend that certain kinds of words frequently used in climate change communication, namely euphemisms, can undermine the objectives of raising climate change awareness and changing behaviors to reduce emissions. We characterize euphemisms related to climate change issues and show how they are often manipulated to serve vested interests opposing climate change action. In particular, we highlight euphemistic names of astroturfing organizations that aim to persuade consumers or citizens. We conclude by suggesting some practical ways to prevent or avoid detrimental consequences associated with euphemisms and draw several policy implications.

Keywords: Climate change; Climate policy; Euphemisms; Hypocrisy; Words (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
Note: View the original document on HAL open archive server: https://hal.inrae.fr/hal-03453117v1
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (2)

Published in Ecological Economics, 2022, 193, pp.107307. ⟨10.1016/j.ecolecon.2021.107307⟩

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Journal Article: Changing the world with words? Euphemisms in climate change issues (2022)
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:hal:journl:hal-03453117

DOI: 10.1016/j.ecolecon.2021.107307

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