Anticipatory pragmatics

The term ‘anticipatory pragmatics’ is an extension of the earlier coined term ‘emancipatory linguistics’, which was originally intended to signify the freeing of the language users from societal oppression as manifested in language. Emancipatory linguistics ideally serves the underprivileged, and as such was seen as part of the social struggle. Recent work by Sachiko Ide and her co-workers has broadened this notion to comprise emancipation from all sorts of linguistic bondage. With regard to pragmatics, ‘emancipatory’ denotes a discipline that does not obey the usual circumscription of linguistic work. But emancipating pragmatics from its linguistic bondage must necessarily include a blueprint for the next steps: in order to be successful, emancipation needs anticipation. Thus, anticipatory pragmatics proactively promotes use of language in non-oppressive ways; it foresees and prevents abusive language of all kinds by enabling the users, both on the domestic and the (inter)national scene.