ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the different approaches that have been taken to the analysis of texts – and the extent to which this has been regarded as part of a broader analysis of social (rather than simply linguistic) practices. It considers approaches to analysing both speech and writing, as well as the hybrid discourse associated with computer-mediated communication. The approaches we consider have arisen not only from linguistics, but also from other disciplines that share an interest in communication, particularly sociology, anthropology and philosophy. The chapter outlines issues that have been addressed in analysing texts and practices, and the methods used to do this.
