Competing Discourses

Perspective and Ideology in Language

David Lee author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Taylor & Francis Ltd

Published:6th Apr '92

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Competing Discourses cover

This insightful exploration of language examines the interplay between linguistic practice and social processes. Competing Discourses offers a fresh perspective on sociolinguistics.

Part of a sociolinguistics series, Competing Discourses delves into the intricate relationship between language, society, and social change. The author presents a compelling argument for viewing linguistic practice as the primary medium through which social processes unfold. Through this lens, Competing Discourses explores how language shapes our worldview and the implications this has for understanding social dynamics.

David Lee draws on recent research in linguistics, integrating various strands of the field, including linguistic and conceptual categories, the significance of metaphor in everyday language, and the impact of gender differentiation and social variation in speech. This comprehensive approach allows for a nuanced examination of how language operates within different contexts and communities.

In his analysis, Lee contrasts two prevailing views of language. While traditional linguistics tends to regard individual languages as uniform systems, an alternative perspective recognizes the complexities and tensions present in linguistic usage. Throughout Competing Discourses, he analyzes a diverse array of texts—ranging from casual conversations to official documents—highlighting how both spoken and written forms serve as battlegrounds for competing discourses that reflect varying social positions and perspectives.

"The strength of this book lies in its careful construction and application of a powerful thesis...This book offers useful negotiations across those boundaries, artificial and natural, that foil and facilitate human inquiry."

Studies in Second Language Acquisition

ISBN: 9780582078505

Dimensions: 214mm x 138mm x 10mm

Weight: 233g

216 pages