Key Topics in Sociolinguistics

This new series consists of accessible yet challenging accounts of the most important issues to consider when examining the relationship between language and society. Written by leading experts, the books in the series are designed to be used in courses and in seminars, and include useful suggestions for further reading and helpful glossaries.

Using a wide range of data from real-life speech situations, this introduction to politeness theory breaks away from the limitations of current models. It argues that the proper object of study in politeness theory must be "common sense" definitions of politeness and impoliteness. Richard Watts concludes that a more appropriate model, based on Bourdieu's concept of social practice, can thus be developed.