Language as a Carrier of Culture: Exploring Linguistic Identity in Intercultural Contexts
Keywords:
linguistic identity, multilingual societies, digital communicationAbstract
This article explores the essential role of language as a carrier of culture and a key component of personal and collective identity. It highlights the inseparable connection between language and culture, showing how linguistic features reflect social norms, values, and worldviews. The text emphasizes the concept of linguistic identity, explaining how language influences one’s sense of belonging and can both unite and divide individuals in multicultural or immigrant settings. It also discusses the importance of preserving native languages as a way to protect cultural heritage. Finally, the article analyzes the role of language in intercultural communication, focusing on how cultural differences—not just linguistic ones—can lead to misunderstandings. Overall, the article underlines the importance of cultural awareness in global communication.
References
1. Hall, E. T. (1976). Beyond Culture. Anchor Books.
2. Kramsch, C. (1998). Language and Culture. Oxford University Press.
3. Wierzbicka, A. (1997). Understanding Cultures Through Their Key Words. Oxford University Press.
4. Sapir, E. (1921). Language: An Introduction to the Study of Speech. Harcourt, Brace.
5. Thiong'o, N. wa. (1986). Decolonising the Mind: The Politics of Language in African Literature. James Currey.
6. Risager, K. (2006). Language and Culture: Global Flows and Local Complexity. Multilingual Matters.
7. Byram, M. (1997). Teaching and Assessing Intercultural Communicative Competence. Multilingual Matters.
