Identity crisis?

This article responds to arguments made in a recent paper by Bucholtz and Hall (Bucholtz, M., Hall, K., 2004. Theorizing identity in language and sexuality research. Language in Society 33, 469-515), in which two contrasting approaches to language and sexuality, dubbed “identity-based” and “desire-centered”, are identified, and the latter is critiqued. As well as seeking to correct some inaccuracies in Hall and Bucholtz's criticisms, the article continues their substantive discussion of contrasting approaches, proposing four major areas of disagreement where there is scope for fruitful debate among scholars (identity, sex, desire and psychoanalysis). Finally, an assessment is offered of the current status and future prospects of identity-based research on language and sexuality. It is suggested that the advent of alternative perspectives, and of debate or disagreement arising from this, is more likely to enhance than to endanger the future development of the field.