Le fétichisme de la langue

Abstract

Language fetishism Language fetishism is based upon double developmental amnesia : amnesia in regard to the social conditions which produce linguistic distinction as well as the belief in the absolute value and entire legitimacy of this "natural distinction" ; amnesia in regard to the social conditions which generate conform producers and recepters and, by this, disregard of the system of differences which is fundamental to the profits of distinction offered by the mastery of the legitimate language. Linguistics mask the question of the social conditions of obtaining legitimate competence in language. This does not mean however that linguistics do not reply to this question. One of two explanations is usually offered : either this competence is described as common "treasure" which can be appropriated by particular person under unspecified conditions ; or else under the cover of the criteria of "grammaticality", linguistic competence becomes that which is measured only by grammarians. Linguistics tend to reduce the universe of different utilizations to that of only one particular utilization of language the "correct utilization" ; that is to say, the dominant utilization as well as the utilization to which the dominant members of society put this language. Because this language is not clearly recognized as that of the dominant members of society it becomes all the more legitimate. In this way linguistics incorporate within scientific theory the social operation of universalizing the particular and naturalizing the arbitrary which is the source of legitimacy of the "correct utilization". Thus this particular means of expression is seen to be universally accessible and required. The social conditions of legitimate language production are fundamental in understanding the properties and specific effects of language. Moreover, it is necessary to understand the social mechanisms which bring about the same effects by guaranteeing the reproduction of the structure of distribution between classes of the knowledge and the use of the legitimate language. These same mechanisms guarantee at the same time the reproduction of the market in which legitimate linguistic products receive their full value and also guarantee the need for these written or spoken products and the need for those who produce them : writers (private or public) or speakers.