Vocabularies of Public Life: Empirical Essays in Symbolic Structure

Vocabularies of Public Life explores the revolution in our understanding of contemporary culture and decodes the symbols that dominate public life. It divides essays into three vocabularies: religious and scientific languages, music and art, and law, ideology, and public policy. Contributors discuss diverse subjects such as American spiritualism, modern dance syntax, and the social contexts of number one songs. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding culture's basic structure and is of interest to specialists and scholars in various disciplines.

Format: Hardback
Length: 280 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Vocabularies of Public Life, originally published in 1992, delves into the profound transformation that has occurred in our understanding of contemporary culture. Authored by Wuthnow, the book unravels a multitude of symbols that have taken center stage in public life. It is organized into three distinct "vocabularies," each exploring a different aspect of cultural expression.

Part I examines the role of religious and scientific languages as vocabularies of conviction in public discourse. The contributors explore how these languages shape public attitudes, beliefs, and values. They discuss topics such as American spiritualism, the syntax of modern dance, and the social contexts of popular songs.

Part II focuses on music and art as vocabularies of expression. The authors examine how music and art convey emotions, ideas, and cultural identities. They explore the ways in which music and art can influence public opinion and shape societal attitudes.

Part III explores law, ideology, and public policy as vocabularies of persuasion. The contributors analyze how legal systems, political ideologies, and public policies shape public behavior and influence societal norms. They discuss topics such as constitutional law, social justice, and the role of media in shaping public discourse.

What unites the book is a common concern with the concrete, everyday manifestations of culture and the importance of understanding its fundamental structure. Vocabularies of Public Life appeals to specialists and scholars from diverse disciplines, including linguistics, literature, media studies, popular culture, and sociology. The book offers valuable insights into the ways in which language and culture shape public life and provides a comprehensive examination of the symbols and expressions that dominate our contemporary world.

Weight: 675g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032383798