Follow

"How are you?" questions are a TRAP!... FLAW in language usage between humans... 

FLAW in language usage between humans.

For example:
1. "How are you?" is a million things
(not going to list them!)

2. "How are you?" doesn't suggest wanted length of reply (though is open-ended sometimes people talk for much longer)

Conclusion - Many statements mean whatever YOU mean it to mean... and you can change / regret / make any excuse after without the person knowing what you meant originally

The "How are you?" example gives a great harmless example to show it means whatever you want it to mean (a greeting or really asking / caring)... and on the others side someone saying longer than "Fine" BUT people complaining when someone answers it! (a few paragraphs of text or talking for like 2mins)

More on this soon I'm sure!

I seek peaceful revenge upon language and people as it's prey!

I seek peaceful revenge upon people using language as it's prey! (ambiguity)

And then both language and people (us) using them together!
No wonder we follow the yes/no power hierarchy of thought mostly - we're not ready to ask "How are you" and get the according response by expecting almost anything or making proper space for shorter / longer articulations of it.

Sign in to participate in the conversation
CleverLibre Social

CleverLibre Social is an inclusive social instance for open discussion, learning, and community.
All cultures welcome.
Hate speech and harassment strictly forbidden.