Discussion Questions

1. How is language related to social and economic inequality? Do you think that attitudes about language varieties have affected you and/or your family?

2. How has the use of specific terms in the news helped to shape public opinion? For example, what are the different implications of the terms terrorist versus freedom fighter? Downsizing versus firing staff at a company? Euphemistic terms used in reference to war include friendly fire, pacification, collateral damage? Can you think of other examples?

3. Think about the different styles you use when speaking to your siblings and parents, your friends, your significant other, your professors, your grandparents. What are some of the specific differences among these styles? What do these differences indicate about the power relationships between you and others?

4. How do you think modern communication technologies like cell phones and computers are changing how people communicate? Is the change positive or negative?