Final answer:
Euphemisms in Jonas' community were used to hide the true meanings of certain actions and maintain social order by preventing citizens from questioning the morality of practices such as 'release', which is actually a form of euthanasia or execution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Euphemisms in Jonas' Community
Euphemisms were used in Jonas' community primarily to hide the true meanings of certain words or phrases. This can be understood as a form of language manipulation or propaganda, where the community leaders used softer or less direct language to obscure the reality of certain actions and concepts. For instance, the euphemism 'release' is used to describe the act of euthanasia or execution, thereby masking its severity and ethical implications. The purpose of such euphemisms was not to promote efficiency or transparency, but rather to maintain the community's sense of order and to prevent citizens from questioning the moral aspects of such practices.
By glossing over the harsh truths with pleasant-sounding words, the society avoids facing the moral complexities and ethical dilemmas of their actions. In doing so, the leaders are able to control and influence the citizens' perception of reality, which is essentially a form of social control and manipulation. This use of euphemism is a testament to the power of language in shaping thought and behavior within a society.