Language, Culture and Identity

This insightful work examines the dynamic interplay between language and identity, highlighting how Language, Culture and Identity addresses complex sociolinguistic issues.

In Language, Culture and Identity, the intricate relationship between language and identity is explored within the framework of sociolinguistics. The author, Philip Riley, delves into how various factors—social, linguistic, cultural, and ethnic—contribute to the formation of individual identities. This exploration is set against the backdrop of the sociology of knowledge and ethnolinguistics, prompting readers to consider how our understanding of self is influenced by language and social contexts.

Riley emphasizes the concept of 'the foreigner' as a pivotal element in understanding identity. Traditional perspectives often overlook the significance of language in shaping the experience of being perceived as 'other.' By addressing this oversight, the author provides a nuanced examination of multilingual identities, focusing on the ideas of 'ethos' and 'communicative virtues.' This approach sheds light on the complexities of identity negotiation in diverse linguistic environments.

This engaging analysis in Language, Culture and Identity is designed to resonate with students and scholars alike, making it essential reading for those studying sociolinguistics at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. The book not only enriches the academic discourse but also encourages readers to reflect on their own identities and the linguistic factors that influence them.