Most of us wouldn't make the kind of language mistakes that Yogi is famous (or infamous) for. But we nonetheless can easily make word choice mistakes that can cost us dearly in lost communication opportunities.

Remember that words have connotations, not just definitions, and it's important to be aware of how our listeners hear what we have to say. What unexpected reactions might they have -- even on a subconscious level -- that might interfere with getting our message across?

Here are just a few examples of words that can make a difference between effective and ineffective communication:

1. Prosperity. Libertarians are well aware that one of the benefits of a free society is that virtually everyone would be better off economically. So we talk about "prosperity for all." But "prosperity" is an abstract term that many people have trouble imagining. They may think of it as "excess wealth" that happens to the other guy, not to them. To illustrate: close your eyes and try to visualize "prosperity" in, say, Rwanda. It's difficult, if not impossible to do. Now try to picture abundance in Rwanda. It's much easier to conceive of abundant supplies of food, clothing, etc., arriving to help people. It's easy to imagine even the poorest families having an abundance of food at Thanksgiving. Both "prosperity" and "abundance" mean wealth and plenty, but "abundance" is a less abstract word that has more positive connotations 

2. Legalization of drugs. To some people, "legalization" (and "decriminalization") implies condoning. How about using "re-legalization" instead? This word has the advantage of provoking curiosity. Your listener is likely to ask, "What do you mean?" and this gives you the opportunity to tell the little-known, fascinating fact that drugs were completely legal in America until well into this century, and the country suffered none of the disastrous results your listener may fear from legalization. 

This basic idea can work for other issues as well. For example, how about re-privatizing education or retirement?

3. Abolish. We love the idea of abolishing such ineffective, costly, destructive agencies as the FDA, EPA, Department of Education, etc. But remember these are not just government agencies, they represent positive concepts in most people's minds.

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To many, "FDA" means "safe drugs and clean food." Of course we're not advocating abolishing safe drugs and clean food. How about using the word "replace?" We want to "replace" the FDA with much more effective, efficient, and consumer-oriented marketplace solutions. We want to replace the EPA with strict enforcement of tort law and property rights, with total violator responsibility, and with improved technology. 

(We can still effectively use the word "abolish" when referring to such agencies as the IRS, DEA, and BATF, whose functions would not exist in a free society.)

4. Capitalism. For some audiences, this word is fine, but surveys show that the word has negative connotations to many. (Some people picture ugly, greedy men smoking huge cigars!) "Free markets" is a better term, or "the marketplace." Or -- especially with a liberal audience -- try this one some time (invented by Marshall Fritz):  "economic pacifism" -- that'll make 'em think!

5. Deregulation. Some people think experiments with deregulation haven't worked. Of course, we know that often there wasn't any real deregulation. People also sometimes think that without regulations businesses would take advantage of consumers or that everything would be un-safe. Try "self-regulating," or talk about a system that is "much safer than it is today."

6. Anarchy. Some libertarians believe that all government functions should be handled by the private sector. While this belief could be defined as "anarchy," that word has come to mean something very different. In fact, if you look up the word in a dictionary, you'll find that one of the definitions is "political disorder and violence; lawlessness; disorder." Sounds like a good way to make enemies for libertarianism! Libertarians, by definition, are non-violent, and we believe in the "invisible hand" that brings order in a free society. Better: self-government.

There are many more examples. You can probably think of many yourself.

The point is to choose more effective and persuasive words. We should never be evasive or deceptive in discussing the ideas of liberty. But we must be aware of the perception of our listeners. Just as beauty is in the eye of the beholder, the meaning of communication is in the ear of the listener. Through improving our language skills, we enhance our abilities to communicate.

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SUGGESTION: This topic is discussed in greater detail in the 60-minute audiotape, "How To Share Libertarian Ideals Without Appearing To Be A Fool," by Marshall Fritz.