Shades of Decolonial Voices in Linguistics

This book explores how Linguistics has been shaped by colonization and proposes ways to decolonize it, emphasizing the importance of collaborative knowledge production and the decolonization of universities and societies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 12 September 2023
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

This book makes a compelling argument that Linguistics, alongside disciplines like Anthropology and Sociology, has been significantly shaped by colonization. It provides a comprehensive framework for understanding how linguistic practices can be decolonized and the challenges that linguists face in diverse areas of Linguistics. The author concludes that decolonization in Linguistics is an ongoing and complex process that requires the decolonization of universities and societies as well.

The book prioritizes discussion, debate, and the collaborative, creative production of knowledge over individual authorship. It brings together established authors from various disciplines, alongside audience comment and dialogue, to create a challenging and inspiring text that represents an important step toward the path it aims to map out.

The book explores the historical roots of colonization and its impact on Linguistics, highlighting the ways in which colonialism has perpetuated linguistic inequality, discrimination, and power imbalances. It examines the coloniality of language, the erasure of indigenous languages, and the dominance of Western languages in academic and professional settings.

The author argues that decolonization in Linguistics requires a shift in mindset, pedagogy, and research practices. It calls for linguists to recognize the coloniality of their own practices and to work towards decolonizing the field. This involves challenging the Eurocentric biases and assumptions that have shaped Linguistics, promoting the recognition and preservation of indigenous languages, and engaging in collaborative research with communities and marginalized groups.

The book also addresses the challenges that linguists face in decolonizing their work. It highlights the resistance and backlash that may arise from dominant groups and institutions, as well as the need for linguists to develop resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. It emphasizes the importance of building alliances and networks with other marginalized groups and organizations to strengthen the movement for decolonization.

Furthermore, the book explores the potential benefits of decolonizing Linguistics. It argues that decolonization can lead to greater social justice, cultural diversity, and linguistic diversity. It can promote the recognition and respect of diverse languages and cultures, and can contribute to the development of more inclusive and equitable societies.

In conclusion, this book is a valuable contribution to the field of Linguistics and beyond. It provides a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the impact of colonization on Linguistics and offers practical strategies for decolonizing the field. By prioritizing discussion, debate, and the collaborative production of knowledge, the book encourages linguists to work towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all languages and cultures.

Weight: 468g
Dimension: 173 x 246 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800418523