Evolution of (Im)Politeness Theories: a Critical Analysis of Existing Approaches and Concepts

Abstract

The article undertakes a meticulous examination of the evolution of (im)politeness theories, offering a critical analysis of prevailing approaches and concepts within this field. The objective of this article is to identify key trends and conduct a retrospective analysis of the evolution of (im)politeness theories, while assessing their impact on the contemporary socio-cultural landscape. This article aims at unveiling the fundamental nature of the category of (im)politeness within the dynamics of modern society and identify areas and aspects that merit further scientific research. (Im)politeness, a dynamic and culturally embedded phenomenon, has been a focal point in linguistics and communication studies. Through a comprehensive review of existing theories, this article navigates the historical trajectory of the category of (im)politeness, identifying pivotal conceptual shifts and theoretical advancements. The critical analysis delves into the foundational works that shaped early (im)politeness theories, scrutinizing their socio-cultural underpinnings and linguistic implications. Particular attention is given to approaches that center around the concept of “face”, exploring how theories have adapted to diverse cultural contexts and linguistic landscapes. The discursive approaches to studying the category of (im)politeness are scrutinized, uncovering the intricacies of language use in relation to (im)politeness phenomena. Moreover, the article delves into modern approaches that integrate (im)politeness within broader sociolinguistic frameworks, reflecting the interdisciplinary influences shaping contemporary scholarship. This holistic exploration seeks to broaden our understanding of the category of (im)politeness as a multifaceted phenomenon, offering insights into its complex interplay with language, culture, and societal dynamics.