Final Answer:
Ardner (muted group theory) concluded b) Women's voices are often muted in society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ardener, through his Muted Group Theory, concluded that b) women's voices are often muted in society. This theory suggests that certain groups, particularly women, face challenges expressing their thoughts and experiences due to linguistic and cultural structures that prioritize the dominant group's language and perspectives. Ardener argued that the communication patterns and language used in society are predominantly shaped by the dominant group, which leads to the marginalization of the voices of certain groups, especially women.
In the Muted Group Theory, Ardener emphasized the role of language as a tool for communication and expression of ideas. He posited that the dominant group, often men in the case of gender dynamics, controls and shapes the language and communication norms. As a result, women, belonging to the muted group, find it challenging to articulate their experiences and ideas within the existing linguistic framework. This leads to a situation where women's voices are figuratively "muted" or suppressed in societal discourse.
Moreover, Ardener's theory sheds light on the power dynamics within society, highlighting how the dominant group's language and communication patterns become the standard, creating barriers for minority groups, including women, to fully participate in public discussions. The Muted Group Theory, therefore, serves as a crucial framework for understanding and addressing the challenges faced by marginalized groups in expressing their perspectives and experiences within the broader societal context.