Creating Worldviews: Metaphor, Ideology and Language

Dive into the fascinating intersection of language, ideology, and thought with James W. Underhill's groundbreaking book, *Creating Worldviews: Metaphor, Ideology and Language*. This thought-provoking work explores how metaphor shapes our understanding of the world, influencing not only our individual perspectives but also the broader cultural and political landscapes in which we live. Underhill skillfully guides readers through a critical introduction to metaphor theory, drawing upon three decades of scholarship in the United States. But *Creating Worldviews* goes far beyond a mere survey of existing ideas. It boldly expands the scope of inquiry, delving into how language offers us specific worldviews and, crucially, how we actively adapt and modify these worldviews through our own ideological and personal interpretations. What sets this book apart is its exploration of new avenues in metaphor theory, incorporating the insights of contemporary French, German, and Czech scholars. Underhill doesn't just theorize; he provides concrete examples through detailed case studies that brilliantly marry metaphor theory with discourse analysis. Discover how the Czech language was subtly yet profoundly reshaped by communist discourse, revealing the power of language to mold thought and control narratives. Uncover the insidious ways in which fascism infiltrated the German language, demonstrating the dangers of unchecked ideological influence. Further challenging conventional approaches, Underhill turns metaphor theory on its head in a captivating case study. Instead of solely focusing on metaphors within language, he investigates how entire language systems specifically French and English are understood through metaphorically-framed concepts that evolve over time. This innovative approach offers a fresh perspective on the dynamic nature of language and its relationship to cultural understanding. *Creating Worldviews* is more than just an academic exploration; it's a vital tool for understanding the power of language in shaping our perceptions and influencing our world. It is meticulously researched and elegantly written, making complex theoretical concepts accessible to a wide audience. The book provides an in-depth examination of how linguistic structures and rhetorical devices contribute to the construction and maintenance of specific worldviews. It sheds light on the subtle ways in which language can be used to promote particular ideologies, often without our conscious awareness. This edition features a multilingual glossary of key terms and concepts, making it an invaluable resource for both newcomers to the topic and seasoned scholars of metaphor theory and discourse analysis. Whether you're a student of linguistics, political science, or cultural studies, or simply someone interested in the power of language, *Creating Worldviews* will challenge your assumptions and deepen your understanding of the world around you. Prepare to see language and the world in a whole new light.