Correcting the Use of "Rape"

Shiva's recent insensitive comments equating sound science to sexual violence have been widely criticized.  On the heels of the brutal gang rape on a bus in Dehli, her misused words weigh heavily. She used the gravity of the concept of rape in an inappropriate way.

If there is a lighter side, I was reminded of when I urged a friend correct his institution's unfortunate use of the term. I don't need to mention the institution or even the country.  However, it is an important lesson in how your website's content might negatively translate to another language.

The institute's website offered an English translation.  When I read the English version, I read of the Rape Laboratory and Rape Institute.  I read about "new rape technologies" and "rape varieties".

While residents may understand the town's slogan, passers through probably don't stop for a sandwich.

Actually, they were 100% correct, but they were referring to "rape" as in the plant that makes rapeseed, Brassica rapa, or canola.  Rapeseed is the second most important oil crop next to soybean.

I did let them know about the faux pas.  Nothing has changed.  They still publish papers that say "Rape Institute".  I suppose that maybe a few English-speaking females may have made other plans for college after visiting their website.

The word is shocking, and it should be.  Therefore its use as Shiva's inappropriate analogy, or as my friend's school's error in translation, must be handled with care. Even though it is absolutely appropriate, it is not the best word choice to when other less-potentially offensive alternative are available.