An introduction to sociolinguistics - Ronald Wardhaugh

In 1986 Ronald Wardhaugh provided the world of sociolinguistics with a popular and accessible textbook for introductory students. Keeping in step with this ever–changing field, the fifth edition has been thoroughly revised with 130 new and updated references and increased emphasis on issues of identity, solidarity, and power. Extensive discussion topics and recommendations for further reading accompany each chapter and featured topics include: language dialects, pidgins and creoles, speech communities, variation, words and culture, ethnographies, solidarity and politeness, talk and action, gender, disadvantage, and planning.

This classic in the field assumes little previous knowledge of linguistics, anthropology, or sociology and may be used at an introductory level or as a supplementary text in higher–level courses.