What's This About?
This lecture surveys the scholarship of swearing and profanity, drawing on major works in linguistics, history, cognitive science, and law. It moves from the historical evolution of taboo language, through the neuroscience of swearing, the linguistics and grammar of profanity, and ends with cross-cultural variations. The last 5 minutes will offer about 15-20 of the most recent and colorful swear words. Questions and discussion follow. Bibliography will be mailed after the event. Slides are available for purchase after the event.
All proceeds will be donated to Natick Service Council and A Place to Turn for Natick families experiencing food insecurity. A donor has offered to cover credit card fees. This event is sponsored by Bosse Pickledom and the Natick Mall.
Confronting Food Scarcity
A joint survey by the Greater Boston Food Bank and Mass General Brigham found that, in 2025, a record 40% of Massachusetts households did not have consistent access to food, and 25% of households experienced "very low food security," meaning they regularly missed meals.
In Metrowest, 35% of households experience food insecurity. Food costs are up 40%. And the 2023 Metrowest Health Foundation's Community Assessment found that nearly 60% of those likely to qualify for SNAP are not enrolled.
What will your ticket buy?
Milk for 5 families for a week (5 gallons) or
Eggs for 10 families for a week (10 dozen) or
Chicken for 8 families for a week (8 pounds) or
Full grocery bag of fresh produce for a family (typical bag: 2 bunches bananas, 2 plantains, 3 potatoes, 6 apples, 6 oranges, beets, collard greens, salad greens, head of broccoli, head of cabbage, ginger or cilantro, 2 sweet potatoes, bunch carrots)
Come out November 10, 2026, to learn, laugh, and do good.
