upper waypoint

WTF? New Book Explores Our Fascination With Profanity

Save ArticleSave Article
Failed to save article

Please try again

In 1939, movie audiences were shocked at Clark Gable's groundbreaking "damn" in "Gone With the Wind." Seventy-seven years later, that's tame compared to what a presidential candidate can get away with. Profanity has become an accepted part of American culture, its definition, power and impact changing with every generation. It's a topic UC San Diego Professor Benjamin Bergen covers in his new book, "What the F: What Swearing Reveals About Our Language, Our Brains and Ourselves."

Sponsored

lower waypoint
next waypoint