2.3.1 Bias-Free Language

Authors should avoid using masculine nouns and pronouns as generic forms. In most cases, revise the sentence so that the language includes the full range of persons being discussed. For example, write “the practitioner records their results” or “practitioners record their results,” rather than “the practitioner records his results.” Historical writing still requires fidelity to sources, and some older texts will use gendered language that should not be silently modernized. But in the author’s own prose, inclusive language is usually clearer, more accurate, and more appropriate for contemporary readers.

Writers should also be cautious when assigning gender to divinity, spiritual beings, or metaphysical principles unless the source, tradition, or argument requires it. A discussion of Nuit, Babalon, Hadit, Ra-Hoor-Khuit, the Holy Guardian Angel, the Genius, the soul, or the divine should use the language appropriate to the context rather than defaulting to inherited masculine (or feminine, in some cases) pronouns. When gendered language is part of a quotation, ritual formula, or theological claim, preserve it. When it is merely a habit of prose, revise it.

Bias-free writing also requires care with religious, cultural, racial, ethnic, sexual, gendered, and class-based language. Avoid using broad labels in ways that turn complex communities into stereotypes. In Thelemic and occultural writing, this is especially important when discussing Jews, Christians, Muslims, pagans, Wiccans, Thelemites, occultists, initiates, “the profane,” “the masses,” or “troglodytes.” Use the most precise term the context allows, and distinguish between a source’s language and the author’s own description.

Some terms are not exact equivalents and should be chosen with attention to context. Hebrew Bible and Old Testament, Qur’an and Koran, deuterocanonical books and Apocrypha, pagan and Neopagan, magic and magick, Kabbalah, Qabalah, and Cabala, or common era and Vulgar Era may carry different historical, religious, or disciplinary meanings. Select the term that best fits the work’s subject and audience, and record recurring choices in the project style sheet.

For additional guidance, consult CMS17, §5.251–260 which includes sections on gender bias and other forms of bias-free language, as well as the APA’s bias-free language guidance, which emphasizes avoiding prejudicial or demeaning language.