2024/2 PBI Introduction to Linguistics

Introduction

Politeness in language refers to the strategic use of verbal and nonverbal communication to maintain social harmony, respect, and mutual face (public self-image). Different linguistic theories explain how politeness operates in discourse. This paper examines three foundational frameworks:

1. Leech’s Politeness Maxims (1983) – A rule-based approach outlining how speakers should phrase utterances to appear polite.

2. Brown & Levinson’s Face Theory (1987) – A sociopragmatic model explaining how politeness varies based on power, social distance, and imposition.

3. Lakoff’s Rules of Politeness (1973) – A conversational guideline emphasizing formality, hesitancy, and equality in interactions.

Each theory provides unique insights into how politeness functions across cultures and contexts. Below, we explore their key principles with examples.

1. Leech’s Politeness Maxims (1983)

Introduction

Geoffrey Leech’s Politeness Principle (1983) proposes six conversational maxims that guide polite communication. These maxims balance self and other interests to minimize social friction. Unlike Grice’s Cooperative Principle (which focuses on clarity), Leech’s model prioritizes interpersonal harmony.

Key Maxims & Examples

Significance

Leech’s framework provides practical guidelines for polite phrasing, emphasizing indirectness and positive reinforcement.

2. Brown & Levinson’s Face Theory (1987)

Introduction

Penelope Brown and Stephen Levinson’s Politeness Theory centers on face—a person’s desired social image. They argue that politeness strategies depend on:

1. Social Distance (How close are the speakers?)

2. Power Dynamics (Who has higher status?)

3. Imposition (How big is the request?)

Key Concepts

Face-Threatening Acts (FTAs)

Any speech act that risks damaging someone’s face (e.g., requests, criticisms). Speakers use strategies to soften FTAs:

Negative Politeness (Respect autonomy)

• Indirectness: "Might you have a minute to talk?"

• Hedges: "If it’s not too much trouble…"

• Apologies: "Sorry to bother you, but…"

Positive Politeness (Build solidarity)

• Compliments: "You always give great advice!"

• In-group language: "We’re teammates—let’s figure this out!"

• Humor: "Your coffee is the only thing keeping me awake!"

Example Scenario

• High Power + High Imposition: A student emails a professor:
  "Dear Dr. Smith, I hope this email finds you well. Would it be possible to discuss my paper after class?" (Negative Politeness)

• Low Power + Low Imposition: Friends chatting:
  "Hey, you genius—help me with this problem!" (Positive Politeness)

Significance

Brown & Levinson explain why politeness varies across relationships and cultures, linking language to social structure.

3. Lakoff’s Rules of Politeness (1973)

Introduction

Robin Lakoff’s model outlines three conversational rules to ensure politeness:

1. Don’t impose (Formality)

2. Give options (Hesitancy)

3. Be friendly (Equality)

Key Rules & Examples

Significance

Lakoff’s rules are user-friendly guidelines for everyday politeness, bridging theory and practice.

Conclusion: Comparing the Theories

These theories collectively demonstrate that politeness is not just etiquette but a crucial aspect of effective communication across cultures.