Demystifying Bilingualism: How Metaphor Guides Research towards Mythification

This book examines how Cognitive Psychology has changed its views on bilingualism and explores the socio-cultural factors that influence these views. It challenges the idea that bilingualism has cognitive disadvantages and argues that these views are biased by popular "language myths" that manifest as metaphors. The book will be of interest to students and scholars of Cognitive Psychology, Psycholinguistics, Multilingualism, Applied Linguistics, Cognitive and Computational Linguistics, and Critical Metaphor Analysis.

Format: Hardback
Length: 376 pages
Publication date: 02 December 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of changing perspectives on bilingualism within the realm of Cognitive Psychology, shedding light on their socio-cultural embeddedness. By offering a fresh and innovative approach to the ongoing debate on potential cognitive (dis)advantages in bilingual individuals, the author challenges the prevailing biases rooted in popular "language myths," which frequently manifest as metaphors. Throughout its evolution, Cognitive Psychology has traditionally portrayed the coexistence of languages in the brain through metaphors of struggle, conflict, and competition. However, a significant ideological shift occurred during the 20th century, driven by nationalist and monolingual ideologies giving way to the celebration of bilingualism under multicultural and neoliberal ideologies. This shift has led to contrasting interpretations of language coexistence in the brain and its impact on bilinguals at different historical junctures.

This book is a valuable resource for students and scholars engaged in the fields of Cognitive Psychology, Psycholinguistics, Multilingualism, Applied Linguistics, Cognitive and Computational Linguistics, and Critical Metaphor Analysis. It provides a deep exploration of the multifaceted aspects of bilingualism, offering insights into the cognitive, linguistic, and social factors that shape bilingualism and its effects. Through a rigorous analysis of empirical research and theoretical frameworks, the book challenges misconceptions and sheds light on the rich diversity of bilingual experiences.

The first chapter of the book provides an overview of the historical development of views on bilingualism within Cognitive Psychology. It explores the early theories that viewed bilingualism as a cognitive deficit or a hindrance, as well as the subsequent shifts towards recognizing bilingualism as a cognitive advantage. The author highlights the influence of cultural ideologies, such as nationalism and monolingualism, on these perspectives and the challenges they posed to the understanding of bilingualism.

The second chapter delves into the cognitive mechanisms underlying bilingualism. The author discusses the neural networks and cognitive processes involved in bilingualism, including language switching, cognitive control, and memory. By examining the scientific evidence, the book challenges the notion that bilingualism is a cognitive burden and demonstrates the cognitive benefits that can arise from being bilingual.

The third chapter explores the socio-cultural dimensions of bilingualism. The author examines the role of social factors, such as socialization, education, and cultural norms, in shaping bilingualism and its effects. By analyzing the experiences of bilingual individuals across different cultures, the book sheds light on the diverse ways in which bilingualism can contribute to social and cultural competence.

The fourth chapter examines the debate on cognitive (dis)advantages in bilingualism. The author challenges the popular myths and misconceptions that perpetuate the idea that bilingualism leads to cognitive deficits. By presenting a comprehensive review of empirical research, the book demonstrates that bilingualism can have both cognitive advantages and disadvantages, depending on various factors, such as language proficiency, age of acquisition, and cognitive strategies.

The fifth chapter explores the role of metaphors in shaping our understanding of bilingualism. The author argues that popular metaphors, such as the "language war" and the "language drain," perpetuate biases and misunderstandings about bilingualism. By analyzing the linguistic patterns and cultural representations associated with these metaphors, the book offers a critical perspective on the ways in which language myths influence our perceptions of bilingualism.

The final chapter summarizes the key findings of the book and offers implications for future research and practice. The author emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the need to incorporate diverse perspectives in studying bilingualism. The book also calls for a more nuanced understanding of language myths and their impact on bilingual individuals and communities.

In conclusion, this book provides a comprehensive and innovative exploration of changing perspectives on bilingualism within Cognitive Psychology. By challenging biases and misconceptions rooted in language myths, the author offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the cognitive, linguistic, and socio-cultural dimensions of bilingualism. This book is a valuable resource for students, scholars, and practitioners interested in bilingualism, language acquisition, and cognitive psychology.

Weight: 660g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030870621
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021