Web of Worries Flashcards
Who created the Web of Worries?
Jean Aitchison
What is the idea of the web of worries?
That prescriptivists are concerned over language change
How many discourse metaphors are in Aitchison’s Web of Worries?
3
What is the Damp Spoon Theory?
The theory that people have become lazy with language
Why is it called the Damp Spoon Theory?
Because it is like putting a wet teaspoon in a bowl of sugar
What is the Infectious Disease Theory?
The theory that all new words coming into the English language are infecting it
Are some diseases beneficial to society? Name one
Yes, chickenpox
What is the Crumbling Castle Theory?
The idea that English once had a peak but it is now declining
What is one flaw with the Crumbling Castle Theory mindset?
Castles are now impractical for present day life
Would castles have ever had a peak? Why not?
No, because there would always be parts of it that need renewing
