THE ROLE OF LANGUAGE IN SHAPING CULTURAL IDENTITY
Keywords:
Language, Cultural Identity, Linguistic Relativity, Language Preservation, Multilingualism, Globalization, Language Revival.Abstract
Language serves as one of the most fundamental pillars in the formation, expression, and preservation of cultural identity. Beyond its role as a communication tool, language acts as a repository of collective memory, a vehicle for transmitting values, and a framework through which individuals perceive and interpret their social world. This article explores the intricate relationship between language and cultural identity by drawing on insights from linguistics, anthropology, and sociolinguistics. It delves into how language helps define group belonging, influences cognition, and preserves traditions across generations. The study also examines the consequences of language loss, the impact of globalization, and the importance of language revival efforts in contemporary society. Ultimately, the article highlights the deep interdependence between linguistic practices and cultural identity and argues for the protection and revitalization of endangered languages as a means of safeguarding human diversity.
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