Why are certain accents considered “educated” while others are mocked or marginalised? How does language shape social identity, class hierarchy, and institutional power? In this episode of Literary Rides, we explore the fascinating world of sociolinguistics and examine how speech becomes political.
From dialect variation and code-switching to linguistic prejudice and social mobility, this discussion investigates the hidden power structures embedded within everyday communication. Drawing upon thinkers such as William Labov, Pierre Bourdieu, and Dell Hymes, the episode reveals how language reflects — and often reinforces — systems of inequality.
The conversation also explores gendered speech, linguistic capital, educational policy, and the politics of “standard” language in contemporary society. Ideal for UGC NET English preparation, linguistics students, researchers, and anyone interested in the cultural politics of communication.
Language is never neutral. Every word carries history, identity, and power.