The Role of Language in Social Development: Analysis from linguistic studies From 1980 to 2021

Abstract

          This article presents the findings of a study that explores the role of language in social development through an analysis of 10 academic publications on the relationship between language and development in the context of Thai society. The study reveals that language contributes to social development in four key ways:1) by constructing social consciousness through shaping perceptions of reality, framing social issues, forming shared identities, and influencing attitudes and beliefs; 2) by shaping social structures through defining social hierarchies, legitimizing power and authority, establishing gender roles, and either fostering social cohesion or creating social division; 3) by shaping worldviews through the transmission of social norms and values that guide individual and collective perspectives; and 4) by shaping thought through structuring cognitive processes, enabling symbolic expression, and facilitating the transmission of cultural knowledge. This study concludes that the analysis of the role of language in development highlights the significant influence of language on social development.