Sociolinguistics
Sociolinguistics is concerned with language as a ‘social and cultural phenomenon’ (Trudgill, 1974). Linguists of this area are interested in what Trudgill terms as the ‘clue-bearing’ (1974) aspects of language; how we may form ideas about an individual based on particular features of their accent or dialect, for instance. Studying the link between society and language can help us understand more about ourselves, our identities and the communities we are a part of.
Below is a lecture delivered by Martin Hilpert, Assistant Professor of English at University of Neuchâtel, in which he discusses in greater depth some of the questions and topics Sociolinguistics covers:
References
[1] Trudgill, P. (1974) Sociolinguistics: an Introduction to Language and Society London: Penguin.
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eYIyMCoIAZY
Picture Credits
http://thalisuowm.weebly.com/sociolinguistic-style-in-mass-culture.html