Have the use of war metaphors gone too far? More specifically, does it matter? that is, do these metaphors really influence how people think and act about movies, sports, politics and "real" wars?

I would appreciate any feedback! Thanks!

Which war metaphors do you have in mind?

I am talking about things like this:

How often have you heard football and basketball teams and boxers say,

''It's going to be a war'' when it's just a game or a fight?

OR

an athlete described as a ''warrior'' when that athlete is merely a determined and successful competitor?

Based on that, have the use of war metaphors gone too far? More specifically, does it matter? that is, do these metaphors really influence how people think and act about movies, sports, politics and "real" wars?

Of course this is an opinion question. I doubt if there's an increase of violence because of these war metaphors.

Many people theorize that using warlike terms and attitudes for sports and other competitive situations provide healthy substitute for real violence. Maybe it's a "guy thing."

Thanks for offering your point of view!

You're welcome.

To determine whether the use of war metaphors has gone too far and whether it matters, we can approach this question by analyzing the potential influences of these metaphors on how people think and act about various aspects like movies, sports, politics, and real wars.

1. Movies: War metaphors in movie discussions can shape the way people perceive and evaluate films. For example, describing a movie as a "battlefield" might create the expectation of intense competition, leading to heightened excitement. These metaphors can influence how people interpret and discuss movies.

2. Sports: War metaphors are frequently used in sports to describe competition and strategies. Phrases like "battle on the field," "war in the trenches," or "fighting for victory" can evoke a sense of intensity and excitement. These metaphors can enhance fans' engagement and emotional investment in the game.

3. Politics: War metaphors are commonly employed in politics to describe campaigns, debates, and conflicts between parties. They serve to energize supporters, paint rivals as adversaries, and communicate the high stakes involved. These metaphors can shape public opinion, generate emotional responses, and influence voter behavior.

4. Real wars: War metaphors used to discuss real wars can have significant consequences. They can shape public perception, justify military action, and influence policy decisions. These metaphors can simplify complex issues, evoke emotional responses, and create a narrative that supports a particular agenda or viewpoint.

Whether the use of war metaphors in these contexts has gone too far or if it matters is a subjective question. Some argue that war metaphors can trivialize or glamorize serious matters and perpetuate a culture of aggression. Others contend that these metaphors enhance engagement, emotional connection, and understanding.

To evaluate their influence, one approach is to examine empirical evidence through surveys, experiments, and analysis of language use and its impacts. Studying the effects of war metaphors on individuals' cognition, emotions, and behaviors could provide insights into their potential influence.

In summary, while the use of war metaphors in discussions about movies, sports, politics, and real wars can influence how people think and act, determining if they have gone too far or if it matters requires a nuanced examination of their potential impacts and a consideration of different perspectives.