[CFP] Embracing Linguistic and Cultural Diversity through English
We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry,
and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry
are equal in value no matter what their color.
Maya Angelou
Discourse on linguistic and cultural diversity is by no means new and the topic has been approached from the most diverse angles of investigation: from cultural studies, anthropology and linguistics to literature, translation studies and foreign language teaching –if we were to mention some of the disciplines that are closest to this area of research. Despite its recurrence, though, the subject is far from losing its high relevance at a time when cultural and linguistic identities are constantly challenged by the powerful – and inevitable – phenomenon of globalization. Moreover, the interdisciplinary potential of the topic makes it still attractive to further multifaceted research and thought-provoking inquiries.
However, the novelty and challenge of this conference are also determined by its cross-border dimension, with two outstanding universities in their respective countries, enjoying well-respected academic traditions, as main organizers. Its unique context of development is marked by geographical vicinity, by the intercultural dialogue of two areas in which distinct, yet occasionally merging cultures and languages have co-existed. In addition, this scientific event is the joint venture of two Departments of English. Consequently, the main general questions that the conference addresses are: how has the study of English foregrounded cultural and linguistic plurality on our planet? How has it encouraged the assertion of linguistic and cultural identities?
In keeping with its topic, the conference also offers a unique opportunity for profitable encounters between participants from the most diverse geographical areas – who are invited to present papers from the perspective of such (inter)disciplines as
- cultural studies
- linguistics and stylistics
- literature, film and the media
- translation studies
- ELT
to which other fields of interest could be added.
Interested participants are invited to send a 300-word abstract and a brief bio-biblio note to the following email address: ISCEConference@gmail.com
Deadline for proposal submission: June 15, 2017
Notification of acceptance: July 31st, 2017