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Read other letters about this article
We can argue all day about the accuracy of "carbon" (and I'm sure we shall), but the greater point is that words have meaning. Correct and precise use is important. Ignorance and imprecision leads to unnecessary brou-ha-has such as that over the word "niggardly," dangerous feel-good legislation, even violence.
Cary does a pretty good job addressing the letter-writer's concern.
For an excellent discussion of the importance of language on thought, please read George Orwell's, "Politics and the English Language," which can be found here:
http://www.mtholyoke.edu/acad/intrel/orwell46.htm
Unfortunately, Cary was a little indulgent when he veered off into his oblique rant about the Gawker.
Remember, the high road is always best.
