Grammatical errors and orthographic mishaps are often played for
laughs, but this subtle sanctioning by the sticklerocracy can have
real social consequences too. Attention to prescriptive spelling and
grammar rules is insidious and harmful. As Jessica Flanigan argues in
Why It’s OK to Have Bad Spelling and Grammar, grammarianism often
maintains hierarchies, entrenches the advantages of privileged groups,
and imposes arbitrary barriers to knowledge production and innovation.
For example, the stigmatization of bad spelling and grammar
disadvantages linguistic minorities, non-native speakers, and people
with disabilities. Spelling and grammar norms are also frequently
arbitrary and unnecessary. The petty grammandos among us, who cling to
pedantic linguistic conventions, are standing in the way of innovative
forms of communication and efficient speech, such as the emoji ☺.
For these reasons, Flanigan argues that bad spelling and grammar are
OK. It’s time to break free from the tyranny of the grammilitia in
the name of comprehension and creativity. As long as speakers and
writers can effectively communicate to charitable listeners and
readers, people shouldn’t care about bad spelling and grammar. Key
Features Explains why spelling tests and spelling bees are
counterproductive in achieving literacy and better communication
Engages with the history of language policing and the brave
anti-grammarian resistance Describes some of the key benefits of
linguistic liberalism Proposes a political agenda to resist the
sticklerocracy and overthrow a world of word nerds
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Produktdetaljer
ISBN
9781040306550
Publisert
2024
Utgave
1. utgave
Utgiver
Taylor & Francis
Språk
Product language
Engelsk
Format
Product format
Digital bok
Forfatter