Introduction

The first two articles in this section focus on the linguistic system, which is the property of a community, and describe the social processes whereby gradual change in that system is brought about. Language, and in particular vocabulary, changes in line with social norms, and these in turn embody the values which are dominant in society. It is therefore often argued that language is disproportion ately influenced by those who have social power. As Leith puts it ‘language has a vital part to play in the exercise and consolidation of power…the connotations that become criterial originate with the socially powerful’ (pp. 147 and 149). However, this still begs the question of whether language determines or simply reflects the prevalent definitions of reality. This is not just an abstract question but one which affects our daily approach to the language we use. Both Leith and Bolinger recognise that language is a powerful tool which has its own part to play in the process of social change. As Bolinger argues ‘Sexism in language will grow less as women are accepted more in the roles that men have traditionally occupied… but it will come about by applying pressures, of which awareness of the (linguistic) stereotypes and protest against them is one,’ (p. 164).