schOrwashing

SchOrwashing is a term used to describe the practice of a political or social group using a seemingly neutral or positive concept to obscure or deflect from a less palatable or controversial agenda. The "SchOr" component is believed to derive from a combination of "Schadenfreude," the pleasure derived from another's misfortune, and "Orwellian," referencing George Orwell's dystopian novels, particularly his exploration of language manipulation and propaganda. Essentially, schOrwashing involves rebranding or reframing an issue in a way that elicits positive emotional responses or appeals to a sense of righteousness, while masking underlying exploitative, harmful, or self-serving intentions.

The technique often involves employing euphemisms, jargon, or emotionally charged language to create a positive association with an otherwise negative or divisive policy or action. Critics of schOrwashing argue that it is a form of linguistic deception designed to bypass critical thinking and manipulate public opinion. By presenting an issue through a distorted lens, proponents of schOrwashing aim to gain popular support or neutralize opposition without engaging in a genuine debate about the merits or drawbacks of their actual objectives. Examples often cited include the rebranding of certain austerity measures as "fiscal responsibility" or the framing of restrictive policies as "protecting freedoms." The effectiveness of schOrwashing lies in its ability to leverage pre-existing biases and emotional triggers, making it difficult for the public to discern the true nature of the underlying agenda.