Abstract
In some ways similar to the last chapter, this chapter looks at the sociopolitical implications for identity faced with language choice. The difference in this chapter is that the choices are faced with the uninvited encroachment of Han Mandarin language and culture upon an unwilling Uyghur population. Uyghurs feel they have to learn Mandarin as their own language no longer enjoys institutional recognition. However, in similarity with the last chapter English represents a global opportunity for economic success and an empowerment to rival Mandarin. We see, in this chapter, that language is a ‘double-edged sword’ in that it can liberate identity as well as impose constraints on identity. Copyright © 2015 Bloomsbury Academic.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | Language and identity: Discourse in the world |
| Editors | David EVANS |
| Place of Publication | New York |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Academic |
| Pages | 81-104 |
| ISBN (Print) | 9780567338167, 9780567566140 |
| Publication status | Published - 2015 |