Sorbian language(s): revitalization efforts in different political systems

Using multilateral methods based on ethnographic and sociolinguistic research, the project aimed to analyze current official and bottom-up language policy. With a concentration on Upper and Lower Sorbian language speakers, we identified their perceptions and attitudes toward language and response to the needs of existing revitalization programs. We studied the influence of the state political system and its influence on minority language revitalization programs. The Upper and Lower Sorbian case study helped us understand the relationship between political systems, revitalization efforts, and people?s openness to maintain minority language.本项目采用基于民族志研究（ethnographic research）与社会语言学研究（sociolinguistic research）的多元研究方法，旨在分析当前官方与自下而上的语言政策。本研究以上索布语（Upper Sorbian）与下索布语（Lower Sorbian）使用者为核心研究对象，探明其对语言的认知与态度，以及对现有语言振兴计划需求的回应情况；同时探究了国家政治体系及其对少数民族语言振兴计划的影响。以上索布语与下索布语使用者为对象的案例研究，帮助我们明晰了政治体系、语言振兴实践与民众维护少数民族语言的意愿之间的内在关联。