Politeness

Key Topics in Sociolinguistics

by Richard J. Watts

Using a wide range of data from real-life speech situations, this introduction to politeness theory breaks away from the limitations of current models. It argues that the proper object of study in politeness theory must be "common sense" definitions of politeness and impoliteness. Richard Watts concludes that a more appropriate model, based on Bourdieu's concept of social practice, can thus be developed.

Genres: Linguistics

320 pages, Paperback

First published September 24, 1999

Reviews

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

A solid review of the research conducted up to present, with an engaging critical stance on the monopoly status of Brown and Levinson's model.