Use Post-Structuralism Theory to Explain a Puzzle of Language Preference

Abstract

Many people tend to prefer the dominant language of society to their mother tongue in conversation, even when the other person is using their mother tongue. This study uses Post-Structuralism theory to explain a common linguistic phenomenon. Taking the promotion of Mandarin in China and the loss of mother tongue in immigrant families as an example, this paper explores the formation mechanism of language preference by analysing the relationship between language learning, identity and social capital. Drawing on Norton's Identity theory and Bourdieu's concept of Symbolic Capital, it argues that people's motivations for choosing the dominant language are not limited to their personal habits, but are influenced by the wider social power structure. Individuals adjust their language choices in specific contexts in order to gain greater social acceptance and identity. The results of the study not only shed light on the understanding of language use behaviour, but also provide theoretical support for the formulation of language policies and the preservation of minority languages and cultures.