ABSTRACT
This part introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters. The part explores the role of languages in the conflicts in one region of northern Ghana. It addresses head on the question of whether linguistic differences alone can cause conflict between different social groups. The part outlines head-on an example of the often complex relations between a language, its use and group identity, and the tensions and conflict that arise thereby. It suggests that the role of languages in conflicts is rarely discrete. Instead, it interacts with other tokens or attributes of perceived difference. The part shows that attitudes to the use of French by a native Luxembourger are different from those evinced when that language is used by someone who is, or perceived to be, native French. It analyses the situation of the conflict between the Mapuche people and mainstream Chilean society.
