Language and Subjectivity

Abstract

Building upon post-structuralism, drawing primarily from the work of Foucault, Derrida, and Butler, Tim McNamara’s latest book: Language and Subjectivity deliberates the role discourse plays in the construction of subjectivity and the recognition of Self versus Other within discourses such as nation, gender, sexuality, and race. It makes unique contribution to the field of discourse analysis through sketching an innovative and clear framework that integrates the macro and micro dimensions of social discourses and everyday interaction. Divided into two main parts, the first four chapters elaborate on the shaping and maintaining of one’s subjectivity in the discourses of nation (Chapter 1), gender and sexuality (Chapter 2), and race (Chapters 3 and 4), laying the groundwork for the subsequent consideration of subjectivity in language learning (Chapter 5), face-to-face interactions (Chapters 6 and 7), membership categorization (Chapter 8), and language testing and identification (Chapter 9). Although at first glance, the first four chapters may appear intimidating for readers (including myself) with limited understanding of social theories (particularly, post-structuralism) or little exposure to philosophical exchange, McNamara skilfully integrates the discussion of theories such as Butler’s gender performativity, Hegel’s notion of recognition with his own lived experience, striking a good balance between philosophical contemplation and empiricism.