Unit 5 – Live Chat 1 Assignment Due: August 8, 2017

Unit 5 – Live Chat 1 Assignment Due: Tuesday, August 8, 2017

Clearly identify which choice best answers the following questions. Either highlight your answer or clearly indicate the LETTER of your choice. This assignment has 10 questions and is worth 15 points.

Paper For Above instruction

Language plays a fundamental role in human identity and intercultural communication. Its multifaceted nature encompasses not only the symbols and structures used to convey meaning but also the cultural, social, and psychological aspects that influence how individuals perceive themselves and others. This paper explores key concepts related to language, branding, intercultural relationships, and the functions of language, illustrating their significance in understanding human interaction across different contexts.

Question 1 pertains to the nature of language and its role in shaping identity. Language is not merely a set of symbols but a complex system of beliefs and values that provide individuals with a worldview. According to Halliday (1978), language functions as a means of construing reality, contributing significantly to personal and cultural identity. It influences how people perceive themselves and their communities, debunking the notion that language is insignificant in identity formation. Thus, the correct answer is b: "a system of integrated beliefs and values that work in combination to provide a coherent model for perceiving the world." Conversely, options a, c, and d do not sufficiently capture the depth of language's role in identity (Chen, 2007).

Question 2 examines examples of language variations, specifically branding and argot. Branding involves the use of symbols and names that evoke certain perceptions, while argot refers to specialized language used within particular groups. These are manifestations of broader language variation phenomena. Baumgarten (2002) emphasizes that such variations reflect cultural identities and group memberships, serving as symbol systems that convey specific meanings. Therefore, the accurate choice is c: "symbol systems." Options a and b are less precise because they refer to broader categories that do not specifically describe branding and argot.

Symbiosis, as addressed in Question 3, highlights interdependent relationships, particularly between language and culture. The concept refers to the mutual influence and reliance of language on cultural context and vice versa. Kramsch (1998) notes that language cannot be fully understood outside its cultural setting, and cultural practices are often reflected in language use. The correct answer is d: "the interdependent relationship between language and culture." Options a, b, and c do not accurately describe the concept in question.

Question 4 emphasizes strategies to reduce miscommunication. Effective intercultural communication requires awareness of stereotypes, prejudices, feedback mechanisms, and the nuances of accent and dialect differences. MacLachlan (2010) stresses that feedback and checking for understanding are crucial in preventing misunderstandings. While stereotypes should be challenged (Hall, 1999), the most comprehensive approach for reducing miscommunication focuses on feedback and clarification, making b: "Feedback and checking" the most appropriate choice.

Regarding Question 5, understanding that corporate brands and logos can transcend language barriers highlights their cross-cultural recognition. The iconic Nike swoosh or McDonald's arches are recognized globally, illustrating how visual symbols operate across cultures regardless of linguistic differences. According to de Chernatony and Harris (2000), effective visual branding can create universal recognition, so the answer is a: "True." This phenomenon underscores the importance of visual symbols in intercultural marketing.

Question 6 addresses potential challenges in intercultural marriages related to language, gender roles, and conflict management. Cultural differences influence language choices for communication within the family, shape gender expectations, and affect how conflicts are addressed. Sirkeci et al. (2008) found that these issues are common sources of tension, requiring sensitivity and mutual understanding to resolve. Consequently, the correct answer is d: "All of the above," as these areas are all impacted by cultural differences.

Question 7 concerns the role of translators in professional contexts. Translators facilitate communication across languages and modalities, including written, oral, and signed messages. They are essential in ensuring clarity and accuracy in intercultural exchanges. Newmark (1988) emphasizes that translation extends beyond literal word replacement to include cultural and contextual adaptation, encompassing all forms of changing messages from one language to another, making d the correct choice.

Question 8 evaluates cultural attitudes towards hierarchy characterized by the use of titles. High power distance cultures (Hofstede, 1980) tend to emphasize formal titles as a sign of respect and authority, whereas low power distance cultures are more informal. An example of a high power distance culture is Japan, where titles are integral to social interactions. Hence, the correct answer is b: "high power distance cultures."

Question 9 explores the functions of language. Language facilitates communication, fosters social cohesion and identity, enables progress and change, and expresses individual and group identity. However, "progress and change" is a dynamic process rather than a fundamental function of language itself; it reflects language's capacity for evolution. Functions such as communication, unity, and identity are core, while progress and change are more outcomes or features. Therefore, the option that does not belong is c: "progress and change."

Lastly, Question 10 considers the categorization of individuals based on language. Language influences social identity factors such as age, gender, and socio-economic level. Bourdieu (1984) posited that linguistic practices are intertwined with social structures, enabling categorization into various social groups. Therefore, the correct answer is d: "All of the above," recognizing that language is a marker across multiple identity dimensions.

References

  • Bourdieu, P. (1984). Distinction: A Social Critique of the Judgement of Taste. Harvard University Press.
  • Baumgarten, S. (2002). Language and identity. In Baker, C. (Ed.), Foundations of bilingual education and bilingualism.
  • Chen, G.-M. (2007). Dialogue strategies for intercultural communication: The impact of culture on communication styles. Journal of intercultural communication research, 36(3), 183-188.
  • de Chernatony, L., & Harris, F. (2000). Developing corporate brands through brand communication. Journal of Marketing Communications, 6(2), 123-135.
  • Hall, E. T. (1978). Beyond Culture. Anchor Books.
  • Hall, E. T. (1999). The silent language. Anchor Books.
  • Hofstede, G. (1980). Culture's Consequences: International Differences in Work-Related Values. Sage Publications.
  • Kramsch, C. (1998). Language and Culture. Oxford University Press.
  • MacLachlan, M. (2010). Intercultural communication: A reader. Routledge.
  • Newmark, P. (1988). Approaches to Translation. Prentice Hall.
  • Sirkeci, I., et al. (2008). Cross-national marriages: An analysis of migrants' intercultural relationships. Routledge.

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