The Language of Misogyny:
Meaning, Function and Possible Interventions

This 3-year-project project aims to perform a semantic and conceptual exploration of misogynistic language. Specific focus will be paid to how misogyny functions in the online sphere, what commonalities and differences lie in online/offline misogyny, and what steps have been taken or could be taken to undermine misogyny.  Ongoing developments related to the project will be posted here. Below is a brief outline of the themes and timeline:

Year 1, Meaning: A semantic analysis will be conducted to explore the meaning of misogynistic language, aiming to develop a taxonomy of different types of misogynistic expressions. Two key aspects will be investigated: (i) is there anything special in the meaning of misogynistic speech as opposed to other harmful speech; (ii) what is the best semantic framework to account for misogynistic speech (e.g. descriptivism, expressivism, a hybrid account, etc.).

Year 2, Function: I will investigate misogynistic speech through the speech act framework. This will deepen our understanding of how misogynistic content impacts individuals and contributes to group affiliation signalling. Special attention is paid to how misogyny functions online.

Year 3, Intervention: Explore existing interventative measures against misogyny in philosophy, industry, and policy. Perform a critical analysis in relation to Years 1 & 2.