Language as a Reflection of Shifting Social Values in India

Abstract

Language is governed by two innate characteristics: first, that it is always changing, in all areas of its structure - be it phonology, morphology, grammar, semantics, vocabulary or conversation style, and second, that it changes in diverse patterns at diverse situations and times. What influences the change in linguistic usage and the pace of its change is the shifting social values and social development (urbanization, literacy etc.). Indian social structure has
undergone a paradigm shift in the past few decades, and this has galvanized the shift in language usage too. The words that used to be a taboo in Indian ideological set up are now in common use. The use of slang, abusive words and rude gestures are now style statements for the youth. The movement for woman empowerment and the struggle for equality have influenced the shifting language usage by women too. Women were considered to be innately decent and modest, and this was reflected in their language usage too. But with the changing values in the modern times girls also find it comfortable to use profane language like boys as a reflection of their psychological adaptation to socio-cultural change. This article attempts to examine different aspects of socio-psychological changes in India, and their impact on language usage. There is an attempt not to judge, but to present the observations with objectivity.