Overview

How language shapes and is shaped by identity is a key topic within sociolinguistics. An individual's identity is constituted through a variety of different factors, including the social, cultural and ethnic contexts, and issues such as bi- or multilingualism. In this introduction to Language, Culture and Identity Philip Riley looks at these issues against the theoretical background of the sociology of knowledge, and ethnolinguistics. He asks; how do we learn who we are, and what are the mechanisms that teach us this? Through an analysis of the importance of culture and interpersonal communication, Riley shows how social identities are negotiated. The second half of the book looks at issues of ethnicity and bilingualism, and the importance of a series of oppositions to 'others'. The idea of 'the foreigner' is central to this account, yet traditional views of the role of being socially 'other' largely neglect the role of language. Riley bridges this gap by examining specific and problematic aspects of multilingual identities. The book concludes by looking at some of the ways in which identities are being reconfigured, with particular reference to the notions of 'ethos' and the 'communicative virtues'. This engaging analysis of language and social identity will be essential reading for students of sociolinguistics at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

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9780826486295

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Reviews

Riley's volume provides a detailed and knowledgeable overview of the rich range of literature dealing with identity as a social phenomenon. In addition to providing the reader with an informative survey of the literature on the sociology of identity, the book reminds us of the myriad ways in which we use language to perform acts of identity on a daily basis. --,

Riley explores in considerable detail questions of how language shapes people's identities and vice versa. A definitive sociolinguistic study of this sort necessarily demands a comprehensive understanding of social psychology, anthropology, history, language variations, and a host of related subjects. Riley is remarkably well informed in these fields...the author is skilled in presenting material in ways that will engage and interest readers... Summing Up: Recommended--,

Riley's volume provides a detailed and knowledgeable overview of the rich range of literature dealing with identity as a social phenomenon. In addition to providing the reader with an informative survey of the literature on the sociology of identity, the book reminds us of the myriad ways in which we use language to perform acts of identity on a daily basis. --Sanford Lakoff

Author Information

Philip Riley is Emeritus Professor of Ethnolinguistics at Nancy University, France.

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