Chapter 1. Self- and other-reference in social contexts

Abstract

This introductory chapter sets the scene for the contributions to this volume which are all focused on the analysis of self- and other-reference in social contexts. In this chapter, we provide an overview of previous approaches to reference and context, offering a foundation on which the following studies will build. The focus is on the study of self- and other-reference that is constructed or represented in various social contexts through specific markers, such as personal pronouns, or other referential expressions. This chapter also provides an introduction to the theoretical and methodological approaches of the chapters.