Careful writers avoid language that would universalize one
element of humanity to the exclusion of others. When you are
writing about people in general, many of your professors will
expect you to use “inclusive” or “nonsexist” language, that is,
gender neutral language. The need for inclusive language arises
because according to widely accepted norms of current usage,
masculine pronouns no longer communicate a generic sense of
“anyone.” Indeed, many people find such usage not only
inaccurate but offensive. As a matter of courtesy, you would be
wise to search for alternatives that are inclusive or gender
neutral. For example, avoid “man” or “men” when you mean “human
being(s),” “humankind,” or “people.” There are no simple
formulas for inclusive language, but a basic rule of thumb says
it is wise to avoid distracting readers with either a gender
specific term that may be offensive or an awkward inclusive
phrases such as “him or her” or “she/he.” One easy approach is
to use plural forms, such as “people” instea