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If they're covert and only members of the group using them know what they mean, then why fight it? Seems like a helpful way to communicate about things that oth
by exporectomy 5y ago
If they're covert and only members of the group using them know what they mean, then why fight it? Seems like a helpful way to communicate about things that others might not like to hear. The paper you linked said that too - "Such signals may allow coordination and enhanced cooperation while also avoiding the alienation or hostile reactions of individuals with different preferences.".
This happens all the time in cartoons that appeal to children but also contain subtle adult jokes so everyone can enjoy them on different levels.
- prawn 5y agoBecause it encourages more of the same, and it's rarely completely covert. Often and increasingly, it's racial dogwhistling and just devolves every thread to wasteful, antagonistic and unproductive conversation. You might've heard the line/story about accommodating nazis in your bar.
- exporectomy 5y agoMaybe dog whistling isn't the problem but just plain old whistling?