The symbolic ecology of language

First, an ecology of language is the study of how languages interact with each other and the places they are spoken.

To understand the symbolic ecology of language we can look at Steffensen and Fill's definition, "Language exists in a symbolic ecology: this approach investigates the co-existence of languages or ‘symbol systems’ within a given area.

(2014: 7).

The symbolic ecology of a language refers to the linguistic environment where a language exists. A language affects and is affected both by other languages around it as well as different dialects and standards.

Language/Linguistic Diversity

‘If diversity is a prerequisite for successful humanity, then the preservation of linguistic diversity is essential,

for language lies at the heart of what it means to be human’’ (Crystal, 2000: 33f.)

Multilingualism

Language contact and multilingual settings create diverse language ecologies. Contexts where different languages are used and speakers' perceptions of the languages can lead to changes and shift in language use. Relevant phenomena include for example code switching and borrowing.

Dialects, standards etc

Writing

Is writing an extension of language, or is it a separate symbolic system?

Texting as a separate domain of language use?

Possible research questions

• How language can be represented (spoken, signed, representing, digitally)?

• Is written language different from spoken?

• Can a standard language exists without a written form? What about sign languages?

• Literacy - illiteracy - How important is being literate for language vitality?
• In the Western world, having a written standard, a language institute that spreads the language, and opportunities to engage with the language through various forms of media (radio, television, social media) are seen as crucial. Becoming co-official, or even simple recognition on a national level is seen as a goal to achieve. How is this viewed in highly multilingual ecologies? Or in indigenous communities?

language shift, code-switching, pidginization, creolization

Subfields relating to symbolic ecology of language:

semiotics?

philosophy

sociolinguistics

lexicology

psycholinguistics

language contact

comparative linguistics

typology