Group Asks Merriam-Webster to Rewrite Definition of “Circus” to Convey Truth: Captive Animals Forced to Perform Tricks Under Threat of Punishment

A very interesting and brilliant idea that makes great sense. After all, words are extremely powerful and the truth is beyond important.

In essence, here is what PETA is asking the dictionary to use:

PETA’s proposal defines a circus as a “spectacle that relies on captive animals” who are “forced to perform tricks under the constant threat of punishment.” It also wants the definition to say that “modern circuses include only willing human performers.”

Article:

PETA goes wild - Wants dictionary to jump through hoops

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By Dave Wedge
Boston Herald Chief Enterprise Reporter
Friday, June 23, 2006 - Updated: 08:27 AM EST

PETA activists are cracking the whip on Springfield-based Merriam-Webster, demanding that the definition of “circus” be rewritten to label the big top as cruel to “captive” animal performers.

The dictionary currently defines a circus as “an arena often covered by a tent and used for variety shows, usually including feats of physical skill, wild animal acts, and performances by clowns.”

But People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals - known for caging naked women to protest the wearing of fur and protesting the living conditions of pet store iguanas - wants a new entry.

PETA’s proposal defines a circus as a “spectacle that relies on captive animals” who are “forced to perform tricks under the constant threat of punishment.” It also wants the definition to say that “modern circuses include only willing human performers.”

The dictionary publishing company couldn’t be reached last night, but, in a letter to Merriam-Webster provided to the Herald, PETA points out that “whips, chains, muzzles, and bullhooks are the standard tools used to train and constantly control animals used in circuses.”

“The sight of these weapons makes the animals perform out of sheer terror,” the letter states.

The letter also refers to undercover investigations that have revealed squalid conditions for circus animals as well as animals being mercilessly beaten by trainers. PETA says attendance is down at traditional shows like Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus while crowds at human-based performances like Cirque Du Soleil are at an all-time high. A Ringling spokesman did not return a call.

“People who use your dictionary deserve an accurate description of this cruel business, and we hope that you’ll consider our suggestion,” the PETA letter states.

Circuses that feature trained animals are banned in six countries and more than 300 U.S. cities and towns, including Revere. A pending State House bill to prohibit exotic animals in Massachusetts circuses is expected to go to a Senate vote this year.

“As more and more people become aware of the cruelty and violence that goes on behind the scenes at circuses, we felt the definition needed to be updated,” said PETA spokesman Matthew Rice.

Merriam-Webster routinely updates definitions, frequently considering public input.