A Review of
SPEECHLESS: Controlling Words, Controlling Minds by Michael Knowles
Reviewer: Paul Leslie
Media personality and political commentator Michael Knowles has authored a complete examination of politically correct speech in his book Speechless: Controlling Words, Controlling Minds, from Regnery Publishing.
Politics has become a war of words
We use language to communicate not only what we perceive and believe, but also to describe reality. This is frequently at odds with politically correct speech, and politics has become a war of words. Knowles makes the point that “according to political correctness, words do not describe reality; they constitute it.”
A book like Speechless couldn’t be more relevant. In an age when the term “birthing person” is used, Knowles points out that our first words, “mama” or “papa,” may be politically incorrect. With speech, people frequently yield out of politeness. Furthermore, in modern America, people remain silent out of fear. Truth is regarded as not only dangerous but as Knowles can confirm: stating facts can get you physically attacked.
Opponents of political correctness frequently poke fun at the absurdity in the latest politically correct phrase du jour or insist on the necessity of free speech. In Speechless, Knowles argues instead that this frequently misses the point: “we must not merely demand the right to speak; more importantly, we must have something to say.” It’s a potent point during a time when one not only can’t dissent with mainstream narratives, but even questioning is forbidden.
Speechless is thoroughly researched and referenced
Speechless is a thoroughly researched work and the information presented is meticulously referenced. The book is rich with historical lore on political correctness and speech suppression as well as examples from current events. Knowles dismantled many of the enduring historical misconceptions relating to speech.
Political correctness is at odds with “the facts”
My biggest takeaway from Speechless by Michael Knowles is that political correctness is not and has never been about coherence. That’s not the purpose. Society cannot simultaneously embrace contradictory beliefs and viewpoints, but as Knowles illustrates, political correctness requires it. For your political correctness to be up to date, no belief can be fixed. Political correctness moves at too rapid a pace. Reality and political correctness are at odds with one another.
Speechless is elegantly written
Speechless is not light reading and is elegantly written. Michael Knowles’s command of the English language is impressive, much like his lectures and broadcasts. After such substantial reading, it’s fitting he should end with some of his unique and at times sarcastic humor. The “Glossary of Jargon,” displays the trademark Knowlesian wit and provides some guidance on navigating politically correct terms.
Speechless is recommended for those curious minds who want to look beneath the surface of politically correct speech and censorship. Michael Knowles’s important book is the product of a sharp mind. You will fully see how the manipulation of words matters and what is actually at stake.
Title: Speechless: Controlling Words, Controlling Minds
Author: Michael Knowles
Publisher: Regnery Publishing
Publication date: June 22, 2021
Hardcover price: $17.90
ISBN:1684510821
