Microsoft Word’s latest update is causing a stir, particularly after Elon Musk highlighted a new feature that flags words for not being “inclusive.” According to Musk, the software now issues “inclusiveness” warnings, as demonstrated by an image showing the word “insane” flagged with a suggestion to change it due to perceived mental health bias.
And this too! pic.twitter.com/03ZbwFu4NE
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) December 15, 2023
The feature, part of Microsoft Word since 2022, activates through the software’s “editor” settings and offers suggestions to avoid biases related to age, culture, disability, gender, race, socioeconomic status, mental health, and sexual orientation. It recommends avoiding gender-specific language and potentially offensive slang, advocating for more inclusive expressions.
The debate intensified on social media, with Musk’s post garnering a range of reactions. Many users, including public figures like Dave Rubin, David Sacks, and ALX, echoed the word “insane” in response. Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy also commented, suggesting that controlling language is a step towards controlling societal thought.
The best way to control the mind of a society is to control its language first. https://t.co/dqPf5KGWC0
— Vivek Ramaswamy (@VivekGRamaswamy) December 15, 2023
This feature’s addition to Microsoft Word has sparked a wider conversation about the role of technology in shaping language and societal narratives.
