The Face of Politeness

An exploration of the concept of face in politeness theory, contrasting Western individualist notions of autonomy, and East Asian collectivist values. While definitions differ, face remains central to understanding how politeness preserves harmony and manages relationships across cultures.

The Princess and the Professor

The Legend of the Lotus
This story tells the legend of the beautiful Princess Mei Li, who shared a quiet, unspoken love with a lowly professor. Bound by tradition, their feelings remained unspoken until Mei Li found courage through her art. She sent him an embroidered handkerchief and heartfelt letter and journeyed across the tallest mountains and widest oceans to reunite with him. Her bravery inspired the professor and their love renewed his spirit. They returned to the palace together where they were celebrated by the kingdom in a wedding filled with lanterns, music, and joy. A fairy tale that became a legend:— a story of bravery, devotion, and the miracle that blossoms when two hearts find the courage to speak.

Language and Schizophrenia

Examiing the elusive concept of “schizophrenic language” and its role in diagnosing schizophrenia. The author highlights how psychiatrists have long noted unusual, often incoherent speech patterns in patients, yet definitions remain inconsistent and subjective. Research into thought disorder and language has produced contradictory results, with many features found equally in normal speech. Ultimately, the author argues that while “schizophrenic language” is often treated as evidence, its boundaries with normal language are blurred and its reliability as a diagnostic tool is dubious.

Is There A Standard English Grammar?

Investigating whether a single Standard English grammar exists by contrasting the rigid rules of prescriptive grammar insisting on“correct” English as ii should be spoken ( but rarely is), with descriptive grammar of English as it is actually spoken and embraces the diversity of “World Englishes.” Ultimately, the author concludes that although countless grammars exist worldwide, a stable, uniform variety, a non-localised dialect used in education, business, and science. serves as the practical teaching target, even if most native speakers use non-standard dialects.