LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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PRESCRIPTIVISM
And Equality of Language

By Ellaijah Palayar and Jahnine Dela Cruz

LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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WELCOME
CLASSMATES
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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OBJECTIVES
Clearly articulate the concept of prescriptivism
emphasizing the idea that different individuals or
groups may have distinct perspectives on truth,
reality, and knowledge.

Assessment: Evaluate students' comprehension

through assessments that measure their ability to
apply prescriptivism in various scenarios.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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HISTORY
Perspectivism acknowledges that different perspectives
shape our understanding of reality, including language
history. It emphasizes the diversity of interpretations and the
influence of cultural, social, and individual viewpoints on how
language evolves and is perceived. The equality of language
history within perspectivism suggests that no single narrative
or perspective dominates; instead, various viewpoints
contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of
linguistic development over time.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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 HAT IS
W
PERSPECTIVISM
it refers to the approach in linguistics that advocates for
prescribing certain language norms and rules, often considering
them as correct or proper usage. This contrasts with
descriptivism, which focuses on objectively describing how
language is used by speakers without imposing judgments on
correctness. Prescriptivism aims to maintain linguistic standards
and clarity but can sometimes be criticized for being too rigid or
exclusionary. If you had a different term in mind, please provide
clarification.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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IDEA
The idea of prescriptivism in language has historical roots
and isn't attributed to a single individual. Various scholars,
grammarians, and language authorities throughout history
have contributed to the development of prescriptive
language norms. For example, figures like Samuel Johnson,
Noah Webster, and others played roles in shaping
prescriptive language standards. These efforts were often
driven by a desire to establish linguistic order, clarity, and
conformity within a given community or society.
Prescriptivism continues to evolve as language norms are
adapted and debated over time.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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EQUALITY OF
LANGUANGE
In the context of perspectivism, the concept of equality of
language emphasizes that all languages and linguistic
traditions are equally valid and worthy of respect. It rejects
hierarchies or judgments based on linguistic diversity and
encourages embracing the richness and variety of languages
without privileging one over another. This perspective fosters
a more inclusive and egalitarian approach to language,
recognizing the value of linguistic diversity and the
contributions of different cultures and communities to the
human experience.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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IMPORTANCE
OF
PRESCRIPTIVISM
AND
EQUALITY OF
LANGUANGE
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

09 IMPORTANCE FORMAL
COMMUNICATION
OF PRESCIPVTISM
In formal settings such as
academia, business, and legal
CLARITY & CONSISTENCY contexts, adherence to
prescriptive language norms is
crucial for professionalism and
Prescriptive rules provide precision.
a framework for clear STANDARDIZATION
and consistent
Prescriptivism helps
communication, reducing establish standard language
ambiguity in language norms, facilitating mutual
usage. understanding and a
common linguistic
foundation within a
community.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND
SOCIETY

10 CULTURAL IDENTITY

Preserving language
traditions and adhering to
EDUCATION established norms
contribute to the
maintenance of cultural
Prescriptivism is often
emphasized in educational
identity and heritage.
settings to teach students the
However, it's essential to
conventions of written and
balance
However, prescriptivism
it's essential with
to balance prescriptivism
spoken language, enhancing
with an an appreciation
appreciation for
for linguistic diversity and
their communication skills. the evolving nature of language to ensure
linguistic diversity and the
inclusivity and adaptability.
evolving nature of language
to ensure inclusivity and
adaptability.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

IMPORTANCE CROSS-CULTURAL
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OF EQUALITY OF UNDERSTANDING
By embracing linguistic
LANGUANGE diversity, equality of
language facilitates greater
INCLUSIVITY understanding and
appreciation of diverse
cultures, fostering empathy
Equality of language ensures
RESPE CT and intercultural
that all linguistic traditions
comm unicat ion.
and varieties are valued and
respected, promoting It fosters a culture of respect
inclusivity and acknowledging towards different languages
the diversity of human and dialects, recognizing
expression. their equal worth and
importance in shaping
individual and collective
identities.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND
SOCIETY
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EMPOWERMENT
Recognizing the equal validity COMBATTING
of all languages empowers
individuals and communities to
preserve and promote their
e, enhanc ing
linguistic heritag
their sense of identity and
pride.
HARMONIUS SOCIETY
Embracing equality of language
within perspectivism contributes
to building a more harmonious
and inclusive society, where
linguistic diversity is celebrated
as a source of richness and
DISCRIMINATION strength.
Promoting equality of language
helps
However, it's combat
essential to linguistic
balance prescriptivism
with an discrimination and
appreciation for linguistic diversity and
the evolving nature of language to ensure
marginalization, contributing to
inclusivity and adaptability.
a more equitable society where
everyone's voice is heard and
valued.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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CONNECTION IN LANGUANGE,
CULTURE AND SOCIETY
In the complex landscape of language, culture, and society,
prescriptivism often leads to hierarchies that devalue non-
standard dialects, undermining linguistic equality. This
perpetuates inequalities in access to resources and opportunities,
favoring dominant languages. Embracing linguistic equality
celebrates diversity, empowering individuals to take pride in their
heritage and challenging stereotypes. Recognizing these dynamics
is essential for promoting equity and inclusion in multilingual
contexts.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

13 PRESCRIPTIVISM
VS.
DESCRIPTIVISM
Definition: Prescriptivism involves prescribing rules and norms for "correct"
language usage based on subjective standards, often reflecting societal
preferences or conventions. Descriptivism, on the other hand, focuses on
objectively describing how language is used in practice, without making value
judgments about correctness.

Use and Usage: Prescriptivism is commonly used in language teaching, editing,

and formal writing contexts where adherence to established rules is
emphasized. Descriptivism is employed in linguistic research, language
documentation, and sociolinguistic analysis to understand language variation
and change in real-world settings.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

Application: Prescriptivism aims to maintain

14 linguistic standards and uphold traditional
norms, often resisting language change.
Descriptivism seeks to objectively analyze
language as it is spoken and written by diverse
communities, acknowledging variation and
evolution over time.

Usage: Prescriptive approaches are prevalent in

grammar books, style guides, and language
standards organizations. Descriptive studies are
found in academic research, linguistic
publications, and language documentation
projects.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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SUMMARY
In conclusion, prescriptivism and descriptivism
represent opposing views on language. Prescriptivism
prioritizes rules and correctness, while descriptivism
embraces linguistic variation and observes language as
it naturally evolves. Both perspectives contribute to the
understanding of language, highlighting the tension
between norms and the dynamic nature of linguistic
expression.
LANGUANGE, CULTURE AND SOCIETY

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"IN THE DANCE BETWEEN LANGUAGE

AND SOCIETY, PRESCRIPTIVISM MAY
DICTATE THE STEPS, BUT IT'S CRUCIAL
TO ENSURE THAT THE DANCE FLOOR
REMAINS OPEN TO ALL."
ENGLISH CLASS

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THANK YOU
See You Next Time