Because there is such abundant evidence in our daily individual lives of a yawning gap between what we claim we believe are the importance and effects of language upon us , versus the objectively observable effects . Possibly because language is an ephemeral medium as compared with , say , a hunk of metal or a clump of clay , we tend to discount the impact of language on self and community . ' ' Sticks and stones may break my bones , but words will never hurt me , '' we intone as we launch into yet another vicious public debate that leaves all parties more hurt and angry than ever before .

Question: Why does the public debate leave people wounded ?
Answer: Because it 's violent and people get shoved aroundBecause there is broken glass all over the floorBecause it 's an emotionally upsetting eventBecause it 's hot inside and it 's the summer