Naming is a privilege of reason and the province of bullies. We name to tame and to maim; to honor the great, the dead, and ourselves.
This quote highlights the powerful and often contentious act of naming. It suggests that giving things a name is a rational process, yet it can also be misused to exert control or dominance—like bullying. Naming shapes perception and can either honor or harm. When we name, we ascribe meaning, but also take responsibility for how that meaning influences others. This reminds us to be mindful of the names we give and the stories we promote, recognizing that language wields influence beyond mere labels. It pushes us to reflect on how naming can be an act of respect or a tool of oppression, urging an awareness of the weight our words carry.
