Abstract
One ofthe central problems in the politics of South Africa's many languages is their sociocultural meanings, which range from negative connotations to cases where a language is regarded as a core element in the continued sociopolitical existence ofits Speakers. In both instances, but particularly in the latter case, such meanings couldprove to be obstades to nation building. This is especially so in the case of Afrikaans, which is a basic constituent of Afrikaner nationalism. This contribution discusses the interrelationship between Afrikaans and Afrikaner nationalism. The article begins with a brief overview of the sociolinguistics of the language and its sociopolitical history, and then, against the background of the notions nationalism, ethnic nationalism, and the role of language in ethnic nationalism and politics, the role of Afrikaans in the birth of Afrikaner nationalism and in apartheid policy is discussed. In the concluding paragraph, a number of preliminary thoughts are expressed about the present position of Afrikaans and Afrikaner nationalism.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: International Journal of the Sociology of Language
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
