THE ROLE OF LANGUAGE IN CULTURAL IDENTITY: A MULTIDIMENSIONAL ANALYSIS OF LINGUISTIC PRACTICES AND SOCIETAL COHESION

Abstract

Language serves as a primary vehicle for expressing, preserving, and transmitting cultural identity. This study investigates the intricate relationship between language and cultural identity, emphasizing how linguistic practices reflect societal norms, values, and traditions. Using a mixed-methods approach, including surveys, interviews, and corpus analysis, we examine the role of mother tongues, bilingualism, and code-switching in shaping collective identity among diverse communities in Pakistan. Findings indicate that native languages not only reinforce cultural cohesion but also act as markers of socio-political affiliation and intergenerational knowledge transfer. Furthermore, globalization and digital media are reshaping linguistic landscapes, contributing to hybrid identities where traditional languages coexist with dominant global languages. The study contributes to understanding the dynamics of language preservation, cultural continuity, and identity formation in multicultural societies. Implications for language policy, education, and sociolinguistic planning are discussed, highlighting the importance of integrating cultural awareness into language instruction. This research underscores the vital role of linguistic diversity as a cornerstone of cultural heritage and societal resilience.