What does Drummond (1980) discuss about the various conceptualizations of and around the notion of the "language continuum".
Drummond (1980) discusses the various conceptualizations of the language continuum, including:
1. The language continuum as a gradient: Some scholars view language variation as existing on a continuum, with changes occurring gradually across a range of dialects or varieties.
2. The language continuum as a network: Others argue that language variation is better understood as a network of interconnected linguistic features, with some features being more closely related than others.
3. The language continuum as a linguistic ecology: Some researchers suggest that language variation should be seen in terms of an ecological system, where different dialects or varieties coexist and interact within a larger linguistic community.
4. The language continuum as a social construct: Drummond also discusses how the language continuum can be seen as a social construct, shaped by power dynamics, identity politics, and social hierarchies.
Overall, Drummond (1980) highlights the complexity and fluidity of the language continuum, arguing that it reflects the dynamic nature of language and the diverse ways in which linguistic variation is conceptualized and understood.