Testing sociolinguistic theory and methods in world Englishes

Abstract

This article assesses mainstream sociolinguistic theory and methods in the context of world Englishes. Despite its obvious applicability, sociolinguistic theory has not always been the primary analytic model for world Englishes. The multilingual and sometimes mobile circumstances of world Englishes contexts do not always fit the usual definition of a Labovian speech community. This article extends classic sociolinguistic theory and method to studies of Outer Circle English situations to test their validity and scope. Predictions for class, gender, age, peer effects and identity are assessed, all initially developed in monolingual urban Western contexts. Methodological constructs such as apparent time, the sociolinguistics interview and social network metrics are also critically evaluated. The discussion shows that, although these new contexts challenge claims of universality, they often also uphold the original insights. A falsifiable theory of sociolinguistic variation and associated methods remain crucial for a principled understanding of variation and change in world Englishes.