The power of language: indexicality and the sociocultural environment

Journal article

Language choice plays a central role in the expression of individual and group identity, but it is also heavily influenced by the larger sociocultural environment. This article explores the interface between language ideology and indexicality as a means to understand the complexities of identity, belonging and power dynamics on the Flathead Indian Reservation of western Montana. Analysing the semiotic processes of indexicality frames an understanding of the circumstances and contexts in which the traditional Salish language continues to embody and perpetuate important cultural practices and beliefs of the group. Further, I argue that the interpretation of community ideologies helps to address the issue of struggles with language revitalization.

Authors: Wood, R

• Publication status: Published
• Peer review status: Peer reviewed
• Publisher: Anthropological Society of Oxford
• Journal: Journal of the Anthropological Society of Oxford Online
• Volume: 9
• Issue: 1
• Pages: 119-133
• Publication date: 2017-01-01
• DOI: 10.5287/ora-xv0wgqzn7
• ISSN: 2040-1876
• Language: English
• Keywords: JASO