Overcoming language barriers on the way to knowledge. Linguistic reflections on German Easy Language as a tool for barrier-free information and participation

Abstract

The present article sheds light on the interplay between texts written in standard language, knowledge, and participation and, this way, makes aware of the fact that access to (action-enabling) knowledge largely depends on language and reading skills. Against this background, the article presents the concept of German Easy Language (“Leichte Sprache”) as a tool for barrier-free information and participation for individuals with limited language and/or reading skills and reflects critically its potentials and problems from a linguistic perspective.