Linguistic Reflexes of Elite and Middle-Class Ethics in Pakistan: A Sociolinguistic Analysis of Prestige, Politeness, and Power in Social Interactions

Abstract

Language serves as a primary tool for social differentiation, reflecting and reinforcing class-based ethical norms. This study examines how prestige, politeness, and power manifest linguistically in elite and middle-class social interactions. Drawing on sociolinguistic theories of language variation, linguistic capital, and politeness, this paper explores the extent to which these linguistic features function as markers of class identity and ethical positioning. Through a critical analysis of discourse patterns and lexical choices, the research highlights how linguistic behaviour either sustains or challenges social stratification. Using qualitative and quantitative methods, including discourse analysis and sociolinguistic interviews, the study reveals that elite language use tends to emphasize exclusivity, indirectness, and strategic politeness, reinforcing social hierarchy. In contrast, middle-class linguistic behavior often prioritizes pragmatic politeness, overt prestige markers, and adaptability in communication. The findings contribute to an understanding of language as both a medium of inclusion and exclusion in social hierarchies. This research contributes to sociolinguistic literature by highlighting how language both reflects and sustains class-based distinctions, offering insights into the role of linguistic power in shaping social structures.