Bill Maher criticizes media use of terrorism terminology

During an episode of ‘Real Time With Bill Maher’ aired on September 11, comedian and talk-show host Bill Maher criticized media organizations for their reluctance to use the word ‘terrorism.’ Maher argued that journalism groups have increasingly avoided the term, sometimes suggesting it be placed in quotation marks because it is considered ‘emotionally and politically loaded.’

Maher specifically referenced the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation’s previously issued guidance against describing the September 11 attacks as terrorism, noting that the guidance has since been withdrawn. He also criticized the BBC, which had suggested the word ‘terrorist’ could act as a ‘barrier rather than an aide to understanding.’ Maher countered that such language is actually a ‘barrier to understanding lying.’

The monologue occurred as the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks approached. Maher used the occasion to mock the shift in linguistic standards, contrasting current media caution with the direct language used during the ‘war on terror.’