The Discursive Ecology of Homophobia

Reviews / Votes

This innovative book, exploring homophobic discourse in three different Western European communities in order to reveal the linguistic engines that power it, is a valuable contribution to a growing body of literature. Asking and answering the deceptively complex question of what makes homophobic discourse homophobic, Russell's unflinching analysis exposes homophobia's linguistic mechanics in a work that is both socially relevant and intellectually rigorous. * Holly R. Cashman, University of New Hampshire, USA * This book is a welcome contribution to the growing literature on the relationship between language, discourse and sexuality. Russell engages with crucial social issues linked to the discursive construction of homophobia, offering an extensive array of resources and, more importantly, a framework for culturally uncovering forms of homophobia in discourse. Comprehensive in its scope, erudite, and accessible in its style, the book will undoubtedly be of interest to scholars and students of communication and language studies. * Giuseppe Balirano, University of Naples "L'Orientale", Italy * Through painstakingly detailed linguistic analysis, this book offers timely and important insights into the ways in which homophobia takes shape in different languages and circulates in and through a variety of contexts. A highly recommended read for students and academics interested in the role played by language in social processes. * Tommaso M. Milani, University of Gothenburg, Sweden * Russell takes great care to demonstrate that homophobia is a hydra-headed foe.

There is no singular way through which anti-LGBTQ animus manifests across languages anymore than there is a politically monolithic European far right. Opponents of hate speech and populist rhetoric must hone their counterarguments accordingly. -- Stephen Turton, University of Oxford, UK * Language in Society 49 *