Prescriptivism vs. Descriptivism

Summary

This video explores the distinction between prescriptivism and descriptivism in linguistics. Prescriptivism is the belief in fixed rules for language use, often taught in schools. In contrast, descriptivism, the approach favored by linguists, involves objectively describing how language is actually used without judgment. The video emphasizes the importance of setting aside personal biases to study language objectively.

Takeaways

• 📚 The video discusses the fundamental concepts of prescriptivism and descriptivism in linguistics.
• 🏫 Prescriptivism is the belief in right and wrong ways to use language, often taught in language classes.
• 🚫 Prescriptivists might discourage certain language structures, like split infinitives or starting sentences with conjunctions.
• 🗣️ Prescriptivism extends beyond education, influencing our personal beliefs about language use.
• 🔍 Linguistics, on the other hand, adopts a descriptivist approach, focusing on describing how language is actually used.
• 🌐 Descriptivists are interested in the context and patterns of language use rather than prescribing rules.
• 🚫 A descriptivist would not criticize a double negative; instead, they would analyze its usage.
• 🌈 Descriptivism acknowledges the validity and complexity of all languages and dialects.
• 🧐 It's important to set aside personal prejudices when performing linguistic analysis for objectivity.
• 👋 The video concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding the difference between prescriptivism and descriptivism.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video?

The main topic of the video is the difference between prescriptivism and descriptivism in the study of language.

What is prescriptivism in language use?

Prescriptivism is the idea that there are rights and wrongs associated with language use, whether in terms of speaking or writing, often enforced through grammatical rules.

Can you provide examples of prescriptive rules mentioned in the video?

Examples of prescriptive rules include not splitting an infinitive, not starting a sentence with a conjunction, and not ending a sentence with a preposition.

How does prescriptivism manifest in educational systems?

In educational systems, prescriptivism is seen when students receive feedback or corrections on their language use, such as pronunciation or grammar, based on prescriptive standards.

What is descriptivism in linguistics?

Descriptivism in linguistics is the approach of describing how language is actually used without assigning rights or wrongs to it, focusing on observation and analysis.

How does a descriptivist view the use of double negatives?

A descriptivist would view the use of double negatives as an interesting linguistic feature to be studied and analyzed, rather than something to be corrected.

What does descriptivism acknowledge about language varieties?

Descriptivism acknowledges that every language and language variety has the right to exist, demonstrating their own uniquenesses and complexities, and all exist on a level playing field.

Why is it important to distinguish between prescriptivism and descriptivism in linguistics?

It is important to distinguish between the two because linguistics aims for an objective analysis of language, and descriptivism allows for this by focusing on how language is used rather than prescribing how it should be used.

What is the role of personal attitudes and beliefs in language use according to the video?

According to the video, personal attitudes and beliefs about language use are natural but should be set aside when performing linguistic analysis to ensure a more objective approach.

How does the video suggest we approach language study?

The video suggests approaching language study by understanding the concepts of prescriptivism and descriptivism, and embracing a descriptive approach to better understand language use.

What is the significance of the video's message for language learners?

The significance of the video's message for language learners is that it encourages them to understand and appreciate the diversity and complexity of language use, rather than focusing solely on prescriptive rules.