ABSTRACT
Language is a great asset that God gave to human beings. Language has power to heal and destroy the entire universe. Thus it is imperative that good use be made of it. We use language in diverse ways (to write, speak, reason, abuse, curse etc). Linguists argue that the primary function of language is to formulate and convey information about the world we live in. In other words, language is a very crucial tool in our daily lives. We live and act because of language. The paper philosophically analyzed the power of language in society, and suggested possible ways that can boost peace and cohesion in a cosmopolitan society, such as Kenya. The study focused on the concept of bunyon among the Kalenjins and by extension other ethnic communities of Kenya. Purposive and random sampling methods were employed to identify the study population of 29 informants. Data was collected through oral interviews.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction and Literature Review
- Philosophy of Language
- Power of Language
- The Concept of Bunyon
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This study explores the power of language in fostering national cohesion with a specific focus on the Kalenjin community in Kenya. The paper analyzes how language shapes perceptions and influences social interactions, particularly in the context of the "bunyon" stereotype.
- The power of language in shaping perceptions and behaviors
- The role of language in promoting or hindering national cohesion
- The concept of "bunyon" as a stereotype and its impact on social relationships
- The relationship between language and identity in a multi-ethnic society
- Strategies for promoting positive and inclusive language use in a diverse context
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction and Literature Review: This chapter introduces the research topic, focusing on the power of language in shaping social relationships. It defines key terms like "bunyon", "stereotype", and "cohesion", setting the stage for a deeper exploration of these concepts in the context of the Kalenjin community.
- Philosophy of Language: This section delves into the philosophical underpinnings of language, exploring its role in shaping human understanding of the world. It discusses the concept of "logos" and argues that language is not just a tool for communication, but a framework for making sense of our experiences.
- Power of Language: This chapter examines the multifaceted nature of language, highlighting its potential to both heal and destroy, to unite and divide. It explores the concept of language as a tool for communication and explores how language can influence perceptions and shape social interactions.
- The Concept of Bunyon: This chapter specifically focuses on the concept of "bunyon" as a stereotype among the Kalenjin community. It explores how language perpetuates stereotypes and how these stereotypes can contribute to social divisions and conflict.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
The key concepts explored in this paper include the power of language, stereotype, national cohesion, the Kalenjin community, and the "bunyon" concept. These concepts are examined through a philosophical lens, exploring the impact of language on identity, perceptions, and social dynamics within a multi-ethnic context.
- Quote paper
- Mosol Kandagor (Author), 2012, A Philosophical Analysis of the Power of Language and its Role in National Cohesion: Stereotype of "Bunyon" among the Kalenjins, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/191206
