“It can also suggest a lack of empathy toward people who are different, which promotes harmful group thinking,” Riaz noted. Illustration: HuffPost; Photo: Getty Images Kamala Harris, Nancy Pelosi, James Comey and Jimmy Kimmel have all been subjected to Donald Trump's pejorative label. “It’s this persistent use of the same word without indicating any thoughts behind the word choice that can be confusing,” Watson said. “Someone in power might use the word ‘sick’ to describe opponents because it’s a quick way to discredit and dehumanize them,” Kritsas said. “It’s a good way to ignite fear into people to gain more power ― saying ‘That person is sick, but I will guide you.

Source: Huffington Post October 01, 2025 03:30 UTC