Pragmatics seen through the prism of society

Jacob L. Mey

pp. 15-41

in: Alessandro Capone, Jacob L. Mey (eds), Interdisciplinary studies in pragmatics, culture and society, Berlin, Springer, 2016

Abstract

What do we mean when we talk about pragmatics as seen through a societal prism? Is not pragmatics by definition soci(et)al? In this chapter, I explain my views on pragmatics, and highlight its societal character, interpreted as a commitment to and from the users" side. I especially look into the oppressive aspects of our language, and suggest ways and means to prevent such oppression, in an "emancipatory pragmatics," as it would be appropriate to call it.