I have 2 viewpoints on the word, "whore".
First, for me, I find the term offensive. It's probably an age thing but I don't think that's the whole of it. I'm open minded enough, and try to think critically, especially when it comes to linguistics. My thoughts on the word, and it's usage, hasn't changed even after reading a few (recent) topics on it.
Even when a lover has said to me, in an affectionate fashion, "You're a dirty little whore, aren't you?" ... I'll go with it, but I don't like it. It's never come across as just a naughty little diddly to say to a woman in bed. It's not a pretty thing to say at all. It's degrading.
I've rarely seen the word used, appropriately, to mean anything but something in the negative.
However, and this is a big "but", there are women who use the word as a source of personal empowerment. "Whore Power" is what I'm seeing a lot of and many in sex worker activism are trying to change what the word ultimately means.
A magazine came out a few years back, "Whore", and it's a great publication (very glossy and provocative) that celebrates the word and focuses on the positive of sex workers, etc.
However, back to the original meaning, I don't like it. I'm very open to trying to accept it in the newer context. It's going to take decades, if at all, for the word to morph into a less hostile meaning.
I sincerely do NOT believe that when men, and women, on this board use the word "whore" that it's being used in a sex positive fashion. Again, I've been reading some of these topics concerning the word.
I disagree with the whole premise of the word and the arguments that others are getting into regarding it. It's not a good word to use when describing others. I'm more than "just a whore". Everyone is.
The word itself is very base and to use it towards someone, is humiliating and can be exceptionally hurtful.
Someone suggested that by the word being bothersome, it's giving the word too much power. What Dr. Phil/Oprah crap are you watching on a regular basis?
Words have power. Sure. Am I a bitch, like others have tried to compare the word "whore" to? I just don't believe that the 2 words can actually be compared.
In the end, if we're trying to figure out the etymology of the word itself and attempt to philosophically deconstruct the term, I'm too far out of school and my study of philosophy to try to figure that out.
I just know, for me, that each time I read the word in the general context of it being used on this board, I generally find it to be used in a debasing fashion.
It's certainly not promoting a positive image for the ladies here on this board. Or I haven't seen it.
To coddle up to others who use the word freely, and seem to always have a malicious intent while doing so, shouldn't be rewarded by saying, "Yeah".
They should be ignored and thought less of. People who justify overt rudeness don't deserve my time of day.
I do not see a time, in my near future, where I would be describing myself in such a fashion. Never.
I will respect, though, others rights to use the word and also, use the word to describe themselves. Good luck with that to the others who just adore the word and feel an affinity towards it.
Best,
Elisabeth
Originally Posted by ElisabethWhispers
Thank you, Elizabeth. Finally, a cogent argument on the subject! I do agree with your comments.
Of course, I don't like the word when used AS a pejorative. I don't mind using it to describe my personal situation because, quite frankly, it's one of the only words that I feel fit in the technical sense.
We all have our opinions, and I particularly enjoy you sharing yours without resorting to personal attacks and insults.
I, personally, take GREAT offense to being called a BITCH, mostly because I take such great care in my real life to treat everyone with kindness and respect. The handful of times I've been called a bitch. It's really been hurtful.
Take care and thanks, again!
xoxo,
LMx