The application of Critical Theory to the study of language—examining how language structures are shaped by power, how linguistic norms reflect social hierarchies, and how language can both reinforce and resist domination. Critical Theory of Linguistics asks: Whose language is considered "standard" and whose is "dialect"? How do linguistic classifications reflect colonial histories? How does language shape thought in ways that serve power? Drawing on the work of thinkers like Voloshinov, Bourdieu, and critical discourse analysts, it insists that language is never neutral—it's always political, always a site of struggle. Understanding language requires understanding the power relations that shape it.
"They say it's just grammar, but Critical Theory of Linguistics asks: whose grammar? The 'standard' English taught in schools is just the dialect of the powerful. Other dialects aren't wrong; they're just different—and devalued because their speakers lack power. Linguistics that ignores power just reinforces hierarchy. Critical theory insists on asking: who gets to decide what's correct?"
by Abzugal Nammugal Enkigal March 4, 2026
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