reductive discourse
[rɪˈdʌktɪv ˈdɪskɔːrs]
nounpl: reductive discourses
discurso reducionista
1. a form of communication or discussion that oversimplifies complex issues by reducing them to their most basic or simplistic elements, often ignoring nuance, context, or alternative perspectives
The media's reductive discourse about immigration ignored the economic and social complexities of the issue.
O discurso reducionista da mídia sobre imigração ignorou as complexidades econômicas e sociais da questão.
2. an argument or explanation that breaks down a complex phenomenon into overly simple components, stripping away important details or considerations
The politician's reductive discourse framed the problem as simply good versus evil.
O discurso reducionista do político enquadrou o problema simplesmente como bem contra o mal.
This term is commonly used in Brazilian and American academic, journalistic, and intellectual discourse to critique arguments, media coverage, and political speeches that fail to address the full complexity of social, political, or scientific issues. In Brazil, it's particularly prevalent in university debates and progressive media criticism. In the US, it reflects growing concern about polarized discourse and the erosion of nuanced public conversation.
NYC Slang
dumbing it down; keeping it simple (pejoratively)
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