The quote “everything is in the language we do NOT use” refers to the idea that through the absence of diction one is able to distort the truth. For instance, one could say “It is raining, and I am outside”. This statement implies that the speaker was wet, but if the speaker was under a tent shielded from the rain then the statement might deceive the reader without the speaker ever lying. The absence of a causation implies a statement without explicitly mentioning it. Nevertheless, Balko argues that the police department uses this same idea, but in a different fashion in order to shield it from responsibility. Specifically, Balko discusses that the police department’s use of passive voice creates doubt among what occurred shifting blame away from the deputy who was involved. Furthermore, Balko mentions that instead of directly stating that the deputy fired at the child, it says that the situation is “unclear” and it is unknown whether the deputy was responsible for the accident. Therefore, the police department is able to avoid the backlash of its negligence while accepting that the incident occurred.
The writer sheds light on these practices in order to expose the police department and reveal to the public the truth behind the vague language. Additionally, Balko believes that the police department is deceptive in an attempt to hide the truth and protect themselves without obtaining justice for the victim. Consequently, these articles raise awareness for these issues which will eventually produce change and end this deceitful nature.
I like the example you gave as to why ” everything is in the language we do NOT use”. You gave such a clear straightforward explanation which made your ideas easy to follow. Your interpretation that, leaving information out is deceiving the reader was very insightful. Your analysis of the reading was also very clear. Overall, it was a pleasure to read your blog post.
I think the analogy with the rain situation is clever, the speaker who expressed “It is raining, and I am outside” deludes the listener not by providing false information, but not providing enough information which is equally disgraceful. In the case of police shooting, the department purposely left our important pieces of information to shield the department from criticism for its negligence. For a country like the US that gives great authority and control to the police, it is a disappointment when they act with negligence and irresponsibility.