This seminar focuses on two broad research strands pursued by scholars of ecolinguistics: the study of language diversity and endangerment, and the study of how language has been used in the aggravation of environmental problems and in the protection of the natural world. It examines some of the contributions that this research has made in enhancing our understanding of the role of language, and English in particular, in ecological changes. To this end, we will first discuss the dominant role of (preferred varieties of) English within (language) ecologies, with heed to language ideologies, linguistic imperialism, and symbolic capital. We will then explore the discourses that have contributed to environmental damage and those that have furthered environmental advocacy by drawing on authentic examples. The seminar will conclude with a conversation about the impact of these insights on key aspects of the research process, including researcher role and analytical approaches.

Pubblicato il 11 Maggio 2023