Too often our use of language has become lazy frivolous and even counterproductive. We rely on clichampampeacutes and bromides to communicate in such a way that our intentions are lost or misinterpreted. In a culture of ampampldquotakeawaysampamprdquo and buzzwords it requires study and cunning to keep language alive.In Mind over Memes Passive Listening Toxic Talk and Other Modern Language Follies Diana Senechal examines words concepts and phrases that demand reappraisal. Targeting a variety of terms the author contends that a ampampldquogood fitampamprdquo may not always be desirable delivers a takedown of the adjective ampampldquotoxicampamprdquo and argues that ampampldquosocial justiceampamprdquo must take its place among other justices. This book also includes a critique of our modern emphasis on takeaways quick answers and immediate utility.By scrutinizing words and phrases that serve contemporary fads and follies this book stands up against the excesses of language and offers some engaging alternatives. Drawing on literature philosophy social sciences music and technology the author offers a rich framework to make fresh connections between topics. Combining sharp criticism lyricism and play Mind over Memes argues for judicious and imaginative speech.