Redoing Linguistic Worlds: Unmaking Gender Binaries, Remaking Gender Pluralities

Language and gender are interconnected, social, and relational acts that we use to remake our worlds. This book explores the undoing and redoing of gender binaries in non-Anglophone communities and contexts, reflecting on the ongoing change and its place in our everyday lives. It represents an important step in scholarship in language and gender, calling on us to stand in the tensions of our own humanity and look for ways to create more equitable, connected, and just imaginary worlds.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 16 January 2024
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

Language and gender are inextricably linked, shaping our social and relational interactions as we continuously redefine our world. However, when our approaches to gender defy traditional binary systems, encompassing not only social groupings of roles, practices, and identities but also the forms and structures through which we communicate, we encounter a complex terrain. This book brings together a diverse group of scholars to explore the unraveling and reimagining of gender binaries in non-Anglophone communities and contexts, through their linguistic and social reimaginings.

Each contribution in this book reflects on this ongoing transformation and its significance in our daily lives, acknowledging the contested and fluid nature of its outcomes. This volume represents a significant milestone in language and gender scholarship, offering insights that will resonate with a broader public increasingly aware of these reimaginings. It also challenges us to confront the complexities of our own humanity and seek ways in which our language can contribute to the creation of more equitable, connected, and just imaginary worlds for all.

The interconnectedness of language and gender is evident in various aspects of our lives. Language plays a crucial role in shaping our perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors, and it is intertwined with gender identity and expression. Traditional gender roles and stereotypes are often reinforced through language, with male and female pronouns, nouns, and adjectives often carrying distinct connotations. For example, in many languages, certain professions or activities are associated with specific genders, such as "doctor" for men and "nurse" for women.

However, there are also instances where language challenges and subverts these gender binaries. For example, some languages have gender-neutral pronouns that can be used to refer to individuals who do not identify solely as male or female. Additionally, some languages have adopted gender-inclusive terminology to promote greater inclusivity and diversity.

Gender is not only expressed through language but also through social and relational acts. Our interactions with others are shaped by our gender identities and the expectations that society has of us based on our gender. For example, men are often expected to be assertive, dominant, and independent, while women are often expected to be nurturing, submissive, and emotional. These social norms and expectations can limit our opportunities and perpetuate gender inequality.

However, there are also movements and initiatives that seek to challenge and redefine these gender norms. For example, the feminist movement has advocated for gender equality and the recognition of women's rights. The LGBTQ+ movement has challenged traditional notions of gender and sexuality, promoting greater acceptance and inclusivity for individuals who identify as transgender, non-binary, or genderqueer.

Language and gender are also intertwined with power and privilege. In many societies, certain languages or dialects are associated with social status, wealth, and education. For example, in some communities, the use of a prestigious or elite language is seen as a marker of social status and privilege. This can create barriers to communication and perpetuate social inequality.

However, there are also efforts to promote language diversity and inclusivity, particularly in contexts where language is used as a tool of oppression or discrimination. For example, language revitalization programs are aimed at preserving and promoting minority languages and dialects, which can help to promote cultural identity and preserve traditional knowledge.

In conclusion, language and gender are deeply intertwined, shaping our social and relational interactions as we continuously redefine our world. While traditional gender binaries have been reinforced through language, there are also instances where language challenges and subverts these norms. Gender is not only expressed through language but also through social and relational acts, and it is intertwined with power and privilege. By recognizing the complexities of these relationships and seeking to promote greater inclusivity and diversity, we can work towards creating a more equitable and just world for all.

Weight: 490g
Dimension: 210 x 148 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800415096