The term "mental retardation," introduced in 1910, served as a diagnostic tool for individuals labeled "feeble-minded" and unable to develop on the average timeline. Initially used in medical contexts, the term evolved into a derogatory slur, prompting advocates in the 2000s to campaign for its removal from public discourse. The term was eventually replaced by "intellectual disability," a more respectful and accurate descriptor. Despite these efforts, the R-word is re-emerging in certain right-wing online communities, notably on platforms like 4chan and X, where it is used to mock ideological adversaries.
Elon Musk and Donald Trump have both come under fire for their use of the R-word. Musk has reportedly used the term at least 16 times on X, drawing significant criticism. The former President Donald Trump has also used the term in derogatory contexts, including during a private conversation about political opponents Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. This troubling trend raises concerns about societal regressions in language use and respect for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
The R-word is not only used to belittle individuals with intellectual disabilities but also to demean those who do not align with right-wing politics. Prominent figures such as Dave Rubin, along with Dasha Nekrasova and Anna Khachiyan of the podcast Red Scare, have employed the slur with what has been described as "gleeful relish." This usage highlights the word's role as a gauge for gauging how far society will allow influential figures like Musk and Trump to go in their rhetoric.
Topher Endress, an advocate against this derogatory language, expressed concern about the word’s resurgence.
"I mean, that’s the basis of eugenics. I’m a little fearful of seeing this word pop back up because it does have such a strong eugenic connotation."
The historical connotations of the R-word harken back to dark times when eugenics movements sought to isolate and eliminate individuals deemed "defective." This included systematic actions by the Nazi party to murder people with disabilities. Endress further elaborated on the societal implications of using such language:
“It suggests you are the worst of the worst … You don’t deserve to be part of our social fabric.”
Dr. Kelly Wright, a linguist and social commentator, noted that a generational shift has occurred in the word's usage.
“There’s this whole generation of people who did use it in a more neutral way in the beginning, especially when we were younger.”
However, she observed that its revival among certain circles carries a different intent now.
“Now, it’s like, ‘Oh, this other person who I identify with is using it.’ It gives people permission.”
“Conservatives are empowered … People struggle with holding back what they actually want to say, so there’s something psychologically ‘freeing’ for this group of empowered people to be able to be like: ‘I’m going to punch up my words with something edgy and get attention.’”
“It is used in a ‘please see me’ way.”
The use of such language by public figures can inadvertently validate its use among their followers. The perceived liberation in using such terms is echoed by an anonymous top banker.
“I feel liberated. We can say ‘retard’ and ‘pussy’ without the fear of getting cancelled.”
This sentiment reflects a broader cultural shift where offensive language is increasingly tolerated under the guise of free speech. Such trends pose significant challenges for advocates striving to uphold dignity and respect for all individuals.
The political ramifications extend beyond discourse. Donald Trump's selection for the Department of Education, Linda McMahon, raises concerns over potential policies detrimental to children with disabilities. The use of derogatory terms by influential leaders could foreshadow broader societal acceptance of discriminatory attitudes towards vulnerable populations.
Topher Endress underlined the historical linkage of the R-word to harmful ideologies.
“[The use of the R-word] is absolutely historically linked to the understanding that ‘retarded’ children are defective children and that we can eliminate defective children for the good of society.”