Anna Stanisz-Lubowiecka1; 1 SSEES, University College London, UK
Discussion
In this paper I will be exploring the dominant language ideology in metalinguistic reflection in Poland in the communist period (1970–1989) and now (since PiS came to power in 2015). I argue that in both periods there is a fierce language conflict. The authorities and the media they control use a specific language, which is a key component of propaganda and serves legitimising the regime and leadership. The opposition (academics and journalists) critically discusses this language in underground presses (the communist period), and in academic texts and oppositional media (post-2015). Using CDA, I will be looking at this literature. Language ideology can be defined as ‘the cultural (or subcultural) system of ideas about social and linguistic relationships, together with their loading of moral and political interests’ (Irvine 1989:255). I argue that the critics of the language of the authorities use ‘anti-totalitarian’ language ideology: ‘Language should be transparent so that citizens are not manipulated’ (Orwell), ultimately promoting liberal democracy. I argue that metalinguistic reflection constitutes a critical part of debates on key socio-political issues and are fundamentally about the socio-political system of the country. I also argue that critical metalinguistic reflection is one of the key driving forces in the shaping of the socio-political world: in the case of communism, it contributed to its collapse, and now it is intensifying the ongoing culture war.
