Linguistic Assimilation Language as a Cultural Adaptation

Linguistic AssimilationLanguage as a Cultural Adaptation Presented by Curtis M. Kularski

What is language? • Phonetics (sounds) • Morphemics (word structure) • Syntax (sentence structure) • Semantics (meaning)

Language in Society • Language is essential to communication • Language allows for the exchanging of ideas • Language is a component of social identity • Language difference is a barrier to cultural accessibility

False Assumptions • Its just about the words • Every language has the same “words” • Some languages are primitive

Externals to Language • Non-native speakers • Regionally different dialect speakers • Disabled individuals

Linguistic Assimilation • Linguistic Assimilation is the process by which non-native people adapt to and learn the language of another group • Assimilating language is often a first step to multiculturalism or cultural assimilation • Sometimes involves dropping “mother tongue”

Process of Assimilation • Integration of simple, or important, concepts • Involves periods of bilingualism • Host and native language used simultaneously • Can take several generations to occur

How It Happens • Exposure • Media • Connections • Formal adult education • Public education for children

Obstacles to Language Assimilation • Unfamiliar syntax • Lack of cultural understanding • Difference in formal and casual language • Slang

Benefits of Assimilation • Access to educational system • Access to public services • Ability to share ideas • Ability to contribute to host society • Integration into homogeneous society

Disadvantages of Assimilation • Loss of cultural distinctiveness • Integration into homogeneous society • Loss of shared language with relatives • Can create cultural slang

Without Assimilation • Discrimination based on language • Students treated as learning disabled • Native language maintained • Host culture still “foreign” • Safety compromised

Culinary Arts and Linguistic Transition • Food is a language and assimilation priority • Food is a cultural element just like language • Food is often transferred between cultures with language intact

Language in Popular Culture • Sci-fi uses language separation as plot element • Allows for exploration of quirks of language • Considers semantic concerns • Encourages the consideration of language issues

Conclusion • Language is an essential part of culture • Linguistic assimilation aids overall assimilation • Assimilation can harm cultural preservation • Assimilation is beneficial to cultural preservation

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Linguistic Assimilation Language as a Cultural Adaptation