言語社会におけるジェンダーの流動化

抄録

This paper discusses gender differences with respect to language in a social setting. I willexamine the status of current language through gender differences and tangible methods tobreaking gender discrimination in language.
The embodiment of the power balance between men and women in a language society isobserved as being mainly dominated by the male half. It is superfluous to discuss the importanceof this fact. In this paper the focus will be on observing the present status of gender differencesin language and reaffirm the existence of gender differences based on the results of my observations.
Nonetheless, the focus is not on supporting the fact that conventional gender roles be fixed. The emphasis is on consideration of the concrete measures employed in the field of languageand action relationships. Gender requires an interdisciplinary approach. Therefore, these pointshave been listed in the hopes that they may act as a stepping stone for discussion in the future.
1. No Borders in Language between Male and Female Speech. Women stand either at a level equivalent or higher to men in speech in situations of informal conversation. It is a fact that society does not feel incongruous with this type of conversation often seen in modern day soap operas where young people are cast in leading roles. It bringsus to the conclusion that this manifests itself as part of the present day female usage of language.
2. Gender in Language Society through Discriminative Expressions on Gender Apparentin Literature. There are expressions which generalize women and men. They include “onna to iu mono wa” (Ideal women should/are), “otoko to iu mono wa” (Ideal men should/are), “onnano kusei ni” (Even though you are a woman), and “otoko no kusei ni” (Even though youare a man). These expressions, particularly towards women, imply negativity on theirabilities, characteristics and behaviour. A strong negative view is not implied when these expressionsare aimed at men.
3. Prevention against Sexual Harassment.
“Sexual Harassment” was exclusively pointed at women in the past. However, sexualharassment towards men has become a more serious issue especially within Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1999, it was assumed that there were some men who felt rather hurt whena phrase such as “otoko no kusei ni konjoo ga nai” (You as a man should not give up so easily. You are a chicken!) was used though it had nothing to do with gender. This was a result ofboth male and female attitudes that the man should patiently carry out his duties from theviewpoint of social and cultural gender differences. There is a large appreciation of theelimination of this unneeded gender discrimination to afford a more favourable work environment. If we are unconsciously using these phrases which creates insecurity and discomfort, I believe it would be beneficial to eliminate them and to strive to begin to use new phrases.
One can say that communication among humans is communication among personalities. I wishthat we could express our ideas with specific sounds with immense consideration for the otherparty. If this research can be utilized to create a subtle movement towards gender equality inlanguage society, then it will have been worthwhile.