LINGUISTIC BIAS BASED ON SOCIOLINGUISTICS BY R.A. HUDSON

Abstract

In sociolinguistics, Hudson talked about the phenomenon of “linguistic bias” when he discussed “the inequality between language and society”. He believed that the source of information that people use to communicate in language forms is called “linguistic bias”.  Based on this theory and from the perspective of anthropology and sociolinguistics, this paper attempts to analyze the logic of the formation of linguistic bias, the relationship between linguistic bias and cultural differences, the characteristics of a linguistic bias, the relationship between linguistic bias and social inequality, and the significance of linguistic bias. Through analysis of examples, it was found that linguistic bias exists in social practice, which is a common but easily ignored social phenomenon. Linguistic bias can enhance the unity of members in a group, but it may also cause conflicts among various groups. “Bias” is not equal to “discrimination”; however, only by facing up to the fact that linguistic bias exists and respecting the diversity of group culture, will different groups be able to benefit from more harmonious relations.