LL-L "Language use" 2002.09.13 (05) [E]

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 L O W L A N D S - L * 13.SEP.2002 (05) * ISSN 189-5582 * LCSN 96-4226
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 A=Afrikaans Ap=Appalachian B=Brabantish D=Dutch E=English F=Frisian
 L=Limburgish LS=Lowlands Saxon (Low German) S=Scots Sh=Shetlandic
               V=(West)Flemish Z=Zeelandic (Zeêuws)
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From: Neal W. Welsh <zooman at inreach.com>
Subject: LL-L "Language use" 2002.09.13 (03) [E]

Hello Mike,
    Please know that your use of "he" as a generic pronoun for both sexes is
grammatically correct in proper American and English.  Some recent
objections have come from a vociferous group of zealots whose purpose it is
to destroy the English language as a part of a political agenda.  These
people can be easily ascertained as they often use the plural pronoun "they"
as a substitute for a sentence requiring the correct and singular pronoun
"he".  Their incorrect use of the language is preferable to them as they are
largely the group of modern zealots who despise anything even remotely
resembling "maleness".  Sothe better informed and educated generally ignore
them hoping that they will simply go away.  Besides, partisan politics has
no place in an academic forum such as ours.  As an aside, the singular
pronoun "he" represents an audience of either all males or a mixed group.
When the group being addressed is all female then the personal pronoun "she"
is advised. So have no reservations about your elegant use of the language
as it is better than most modern American speakers, unfortunately.
    Regards,
    Neal (retired teacher)
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