Abstract:
Linguistic purism is an ideology that emphasizes the preservation and protection of a language by promoting its pure form, often in opposition to foreign influences, slang, or dialectal variations. In Bangladesh, this phenomenon has significant historical, social, and political dimensions. This study explores the trajectories of linguistic purism in Bangladesh, its myths and realities, and the implications for linguistic rights. The historical analysis traces the roots of linguistic purism in Bangladesh to contemporary debates surrounding language purity and the influence of foreign words. The study unveils the intertwining of language ideology with national identity, culture, and political ideology. Furthermore, this research investigates the myths surrounding linguistic purism, such as the belief in the existence of an uncontaminated, 'pure' form of Bengali. Contrary to these myths, linguistic diversity and change are natural processes, and the study highlights the complex realities of language use in a multicultural society. The implications section focuses on the impact of linguistic purism on linguistic rights in Bangladesh. It argues that linguistic purism can lead to discrimination against minority languages and dialects, thus posing a threat to linguistic diversity and social cohesion. At the same time, the study recognizes the role of linguistic purism in fostering a sense of national identity and unity. The research concludes by emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that recognizes the importance of preserving the linguistic heritage while also promoting linguistic diversity and ensuring the rights of all language communities. It calls for comprehensive language policies that take into account the historical context, societal needs, and human rights, aiming to foster a linguistic landscape that is both unified and diverse.
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