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Measuring Diversity in Multilingual Communication

Author

Listed:
  • Michele Gazzola

    (Ulster University
    Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin)

  • Torsten Templin

    (Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin)

  • Lisa J. McEntee-Atalianis

    (University of London)

Abstract

This article develops new indices to measure linguistic diversity. It is new in two respects: firstly, existing indices to measure the probability that in a given multilingual context communication among people speaking different languages can successfully occur are based on the assumption that communication is possible only if at least one single language is shared. This study develops new indices that describe the probability that people with different linguistic repertoires can effectively communicate not only through one common language, but also by relying on their receptive competence in multiple languages, or a mix between the two communication strategies. Secondly, it develops indices to measure the degree of diversity of language policies aimed at providing multilingual communication (through translation and interpretation). The focus, therefore, is on the organisation as collective actors rather than individuals. The indices may be relevant to the study of the political and economic implications of linguistic diversity in multilingual countries, and in the management of diversity in multilingual organisations.

Suggested Citation

  • Michele Gazzola & Torsten Templin & Lisa J. McEntee-Atalianis, 2020. "Measuring Diversity in Multilingual Communication," Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, Springer, vol. 147(2), pages 545-566, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:soinre:v:147:y:2020:i:2:d:10.1007_s11205-019-02161-5
    DOI: 10.1007/s11205-019-02161-5
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    Cited by:

    1. François Grin & Guillaume Fürst, 2022. "Measuring Linguistic Diversity: A Multi-level Metric," Social Indicators Research: An International and Interdisciplinary Journal for Quality-of-Life Measurement, Springer, vol. 164(2), pages 601-621, November.

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