Rethinking Language Policy

The definitive guide to the field of language policy, rich with examples

Explores a theory of language policy starting with the individual speaker rather than the nation
Draws on a range of examples and case studies including examples of threatened indigenous and minority languages throughout the world
Surveys the language practices, beliefs, and planning efforts of a wide range of stakeholders including families, public institutions and local and national activists

Drawing on four decades of research, Bernard Spolsky presents an updated theory of language policy that starts with the individual speaker instead of the nation. In this book, he surveys the language practices, beliefs, and planning efforts of individuals, families, public and private institutions, local and national activists, advocates and managers, and nations. He examines the diversity of linguistic repertoires and the multiplicity of forces, linguistic and non-linguistic, which account for language shift and maintenance. By starting with the individual speaker and moving through the various levels and domains, Spolsky shows the many different policies with which a national government must compete and illustrates why national policy is so difficult. A definitive guide to the field, this is essential reading for policy makers, stakeholders, researchers, and students of language policy.