It’s interesting to read a work about the importance of “continued” colonization because such a concept is often thought of to be a thing of the past. But the exploitation of other people groups is still incredibly pertinent today, and often it is masked under smaller nuances and micro aggressions that, on the surface, make this oppression seem less obvious than it actually is.
One such nuance that Jegathesan explores is the use of language – the terms that are used to identify and mark Tamil women and workers as “subhuman,” thus justifying discrimination and forced labor upon them. The author then delves into the anthropology behind this linguistic angle, looking at why and how words like “coolie” have turned into a derogatory label. This word then almost provides a justification for things like “gentle slavery” – an oxymoron that reveals the realities of colonized people groups. No matter how “gentle” something is, or how casual “coolie” may be thrown around, these terms carry dangers and are representative of the larger infrastructure of oppression and discrimination of Tamil workers. I believe this also applies to any derogatory terms used today – they are an encourager of racist roots and marginalizes minorities everywhere.
After reading Jegathesan’s linguistic angle can be applied into my own research. What are some terms that are used in Korean perceptions of beauty that can actually hurt people’s understanding of what it means to be beautiful? Words like “pale” and “light” are considered to be a compliment, and are often associated in Korean media with “pure.” I’m wondering then, the strength that words have in enhancing cultural discrimination?