Social Theories Language

AY2020/2021 Semester 2

This course introduces you to social theories that have had a profound impact on how linguists study language, and understand the links between language use and society. Important theoretical frameworks by prominent theorists (eg Foucault, Bourdieu, Butler and Bakhtin) are essential concepts for anyone with an interest in the Humanities and Social Sciences, and that have been exceedingly influential in the field of linguistics the last 30 years. This course is especially useful to those who seek a theoretical grounding in how we can better understand and characterize society, human behaviour and language use, by critically engaging with classic texts written by these social theorists.