Linguistic Practice in Changing Conditions

This book demonstrates the power of sociolinguistics in understanding everyday communicative practice under changing social conditions. It builds on the approaches developed by Gumperz and Hymes in the 1970s and 80s and argues for their relevance in analyzing the micropolitics of everyday talk in urban settings. It also includes studies of (in)securitized communication addressed to challenges ahead.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2021
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

This book is a groundbreaking exploration of the immense potential of sociolinguistics to enhance our understanding of everyday communicative practices in the ever-evolving social landscape. Building upon the pioneering work of Gumperz and Hymes in the 1970s and 80s, it not only reaffirms the enduring relevance of their approaches in analyzing the intricate micropolitics of urban conversations but also advocates for their significance in emerging endeavors to navigate the increasingly securitized environments that surround us. Spanning a decade of collaborative research across diverse disciplinary, interdisciplinary, and applied perspectives, the book begins with foundational principles and methodologies, seamlessly transitioning into empirically grounded arguments in urban sociolinguistics. It concludes with in-depth studies of (in)securitized communication, aimed at addressing the challenges that lie ahead.

The power and distinctiveness of sociolinguistics in understanding everyday communicative practice under changing social conditions are vividly demonstrated in this comprehensive book. It builds upon the approaches developed by Gumperz and Hymes in the 1970s and 80s, not only affirming their continued relevance in analyzing the micropolitics of urban talk but also advocating for their value in emerging efforts to chart the heavily securitized environments that are rapidly evolving around us.

Drawing on a decade of collaborative work spanning disciplinary boundaries, the book offers a rich tapestry of insights. It begins with a comprehensive introduction that provides guiding principles and methodologies, laying the foundation for the subsequent chapters. The reader is then taken on a journey that explores the intricacies of urban sociolinguistics, delving into empirically driven arguments that shed light on the diverse ways in which language shapes and reflects social interactions.

Throughout the book, the authors employ a multidisciplinary approach, drawing from a wide range of fields such as linguistics, sociology, anthropology, communication studies, and security studies. This interdisciplinary approach not only enhances the depth and richness of the analysis but also enables a more comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between language, power, and security.

In the concluding chapters, the book takes a forward-looking perspective, addressing the challenges and opportunities that arise in the context of (in)securitized communication. It explores the ways in which language is used to construct and maintain boundaries, as well as the ways in which it can be exploited to undermine security and promote instability. The authors offer practical insights and recommendations for policymakers, educators, and practitioners, aimed at promoting more effective communication strategies that can mitigate the risks associated with (in)securitized environments.

In summary, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of language, power, and security. It provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the ways in which sociolinguistics can contribute to our understanding of everyday communicative practices in the context of changing social conditions. By advocating for the value of Gumperz and Hymes' approaches and embracing an interdisciplinary perspective, the authors have produced a valuable resource that will be of great interest to scholars, researchers, and practitioners alike.

Weight: 414g
Dimension: 148 x 209 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788929981