How many of you have used the phrase, “Rule of Thumb”? I can’t think of how frequently I have applied these three words to many topics and situations in my life. Whether dealing with issues at the office, on the job site, or even at my own home, I had used that phrase quite frequently. One year, I was chastised by a friend for using that term and what it meant to women. Frankly, I was at a loss and I started thinking this was indeed something should address.
Even on a tour of old Boston a few summers ago, it was purportedly a real rule back in the day. While I appreciated the gentleman that wore traditional colonial garb as we roamed the streets of Boston, I wondered if all of his stories were actually true. Then, it really got me thinking and I did some research on this very topic.
The phrase “rule of thumb” has a complex history that has been misunderstood in recent decades. While commonly used to mean a practical guideline, its alleged connection to domestic violence has led some to question its appropriateness. In personal reflection, I cannot begin to tell you how frequently I was told “Rule of Thumb” came from the 17th and 18th centuries that provided a husband a way to punish his wife for transgressions.
Origins and Misconceptions
The phrase “rule of thumb” originated in the 17th century, referring to rough measurements or rules based on practice rather than theory[1]. It likely came from tradespeople using their thumbs for quick estimates.
Contrary to popular belief, there is no evidence that “rule of thumb” originated from a law allowing wife-beating with a stick no thicker than a thumb[1]. This misconception emerged in the 1970s and spread widely, even appearing in legal journals[1].
Historical Context
While the “rule of thumb” was not a real law, there is historical evidence of legal systems condoning domestic violence:
– 17th-18th century judges made rulings seeming to allow wife-beating in moderation[4]
– 19th century American courts referenced an “ancient doctrine” permitting husbands to physically punish wives[1]
Modern Usage Concerns
Some argue against using “rule of thumb” today because:
1. It may unintentionally perpetuate the myth of its connection to domestic violence
2. It could be seen as insensitive given the real history of laws permitting spousal abuse
3. More precise alternatives often exist for expressing the same concept
While these are elements to consider, I do not personally believe anyone utilizes this phrase thinking that anything of this nature would be condoned. At least, those that I work with on a daily basis do not appear to think in this nature.
Summary
While “rule of thumb” did not originate from supposed wife-beating laws, its controversial history and lingering misconceptions make it a phrase worth reconsidering in modern usage. Increased awareness of its actual origins and the broader context of historical domestic violence laws can inform more thoughtful language choices.
Just another one of those facts to think about as you navigate this world of life.
Sources
[1] Rule of thumb – Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rule_of_thumb
[2] Origin(s) of “Rule of Thumb” https://userpages.umbc.edu/~korenman/wmst/ruleofthumb.html
[3] [PDF] Rule of thumb – meaning and origin https://jan.ucc.nau.edu/~pms/cj360/readings/Rule%20of%20thumb%20-%20meaning%20and%20origin.pdf
[4] The misunderstood ‘rule of thumb’ Misconception – Baltimore Sun https://www.baltimoresun.com/1998/04/17/the-misunderstood-rule-of-thumb-misconception-many-feminists-for-years-thought-the-phrase-rule-of-thumb-referred-to-british-common-laws-tolerance-of-wife-beating/
[5] rule of thumb, n. & adj. meanings, etymology and more https://www.oed.com/dictionary/rule-of-thumb_n?tl=true