Linguistics - Scientific proof that people from the South are dumb! Okay, now that I've inflamed you, read about how people tend to believe that speaking slowly is tied to lack of intelligence. I had to read some of Deborah Tannen's linguistics-for-the-masses books (titled for easy talk show bookings, no doubt) as an undergrad. I remember finding them to be very insightful, although a bit too New Age-y, on everyday communication. This article factors in the role of TV shows with fast-paced dialogue like West Wing and Gilmore Girls, plus instant messaging in influence the way we interpret and give value to speech patterns. As an un-accented American, I don't have very strong reactions, but perhaps our readers with drawls or British lilts may have a different opinion.