Handbook of language and communication: diversity and change

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In line with the Handbook series' perspective, Vol. 9 addresses language-related issues stemming from linguistic diversity and change, highlighting the contributions of Applied Linguistics to potential solutions. Part I, “Language minorities and inequality,” explores global phenomena of language contact and diversity, focusing on indigenous and immigrant linguistic minorities and their access to linguistic rights through language policies, as well as the implications for their linguistic futures. Part II, “Language planning and language change,” discusses how colonialism, imperialism, globalization, and economics influence language policies and planning measures in addressing challenges arising from language contact and diversity. Part III, “Language variation and change in institutional contexts,” investigates language-related issues within various institutional communication areas, such as education, law, religion, science, and the Internet, often linked to socioeconomic and cultural asymmetries. Part IV, “The discourse of linguistic diversity and language change,” examines public debates surrounding linguistic diversity, language change, and reform, shaped by diverse ideological positions, values, and attitudes, including issues of sexism, racism, and political correctness. The volume also includes extensive reference sections and an index.