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The Sociolinguistics of Globalization


Synopsis


Human language has changed in the age of globalization: no longer tied to stable and resident communities, it moves across the globe, and it changes in the process. The world has become a complex 'web' of villages, towns, neighbourhoods and settlements connected by material and symbolic ties in often unpredictable ways. This phenomenon requires us to revise our understanding of linguistic communication. In The Sociolinguistics of Globalization Jan Blommaert constructs a theory of changing language in a changing society, reconsidering locality, repertoires, competence, history and sociolinguistic inequality.

Blommaert, Jan

Summary

Chapter 1: Globalization and Sociolinguistics

* Explores the concept of globalization and its impact on language and society.
* Discusses the spread of English as a global lingua franca and its effects on local languages.

Example: The rise of English as the dominant language in global business, education, and media has led to increased demand for English language learning in non-native English-speaking countries.

Chapter 2: Language and Identity in a Globalized World

* Examines the role of language in shaping individual and collective identities in a globalized context.
* Discusses the challenges of preserving local languages and cultures amidst globalizing pressures.

Example: The revival of indigenous languages in Canada and other countries aims to protect cultural heritage and strengthen community identity.

Chapter 3: Language, Migration, and Transnationalism

* Explores the linguistic experiences of migrants and transnational communities.
* Discusses language acquisition, language maintenance, and the formation of new linguistic varieties.

Example: The emergence of "Spanglish" in the United States among Spanish-speaking immigrants demonstrates language blending and adaptation to a new environment.

Chapter 4: Language and Power in Globalized Communication

* Analyzes the ways in which language reflects and perpetuates power imbalances in global communication.
* Discusses issues of linguistic imperialism, linguistic hegemony, and language standardization.

Example: The use of French as the official language of former African colonies reflects the enduring linguistic legacy of European colonialism.

Chapter 5: Language Policy and Globalization

* Examines the role of language policy in shaping linguistic landscapes and managing language diversity.
* Discusses language planning, language education, and the preservation of endangered languages.

Example: The implementation of bilingual education programs in some countries aims to promote multilingualism and preserve cultural diversity.

Chapter 6: Language and the Internet

* Explores the impact of the internet on linguistic communication and the emergence of new digital language varieties.
* Discusses the spread of online dialects, the use of emojis and GIFs, and the globalization of youth language.

Example: The proliferation of English-based internet content has contributed to the spread of English as a global language online.

Chapter 7: Language and the Future of Globalization

* Speculates on the future of language in a globalized world.
* Discusses the potential for new language dynamics, the impact of artificial intelligence on language, and the role of language in shaping future societies.

Example: The development of automated translation technologies raises questions about the future of multilingual communication and the preservation of linguistic diversity.