How Did Arabic Get on That Sign?
New Books in Sociology
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Arabic and Urdu: Language, Identity, and Culture
This chapter examines the sociolinguistic significance of Arabic and Urdu in South Asia, focusing on incidents that showcase public perception and cultural reverence for the Arabic script. It highlights how the use of Arabic can influence societal behaviors and the political implications of language in India, particularly regarding the national identity associated with Urdu. Through examples from Pakistan and India, the discussion reveals the complexities of language as a marker of cultural identity and the ongoing ideological battles surrounding it.
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