English 382PH - Advanced Topics in English: 'Linguistic Ideology, Power, and Hope'

We conceive of language in many ways: a cognitive process, a social practice, a divine gift. We locate it in individuals, in nations, and in species. We label it as correct or as deficient. This course explores how these language ideologies are connected to particular times and places, and how they contribute to the existing social, political, and economic organization of the world. We will also explore language's potential to create new worlds. Readings in linguistic anthropology and sociolinguistics will be combined with literary texts to develop our discussion. Authors may include: Cherie Dimaline, Leanne Simpson, Cyril Wong, Shih-Li Kow.

This course is open to juniors and seniors; Prereq: 8 credits in English.