This second edition of the foundational textbook An Introduction to
Applied Linguistics provides a state-of-the-art account of contemporary
applied linguistics. The kinds of language problems of interest to
applied linguists are discussed and a distinction drawn between the
different research approach taken by theoretical linguists and by
applied linguists to what seem to be the same problems. Professor Davies
describes a variety of projects which illustrate the interests of the
field and highlight the marriage it offers between practical experience
and theoretical understanding. The increasing emphasis of applied
linguistics on ethicality is linked to the growth of professionalism and
to the concern for accountability, manifested in the widening emphasis
on critical stances. This, Davies argues, is at its most acute in the
tension between giving advice as the outcome of research and taking
political action in order to change a situation which, it is claimed,
needs ameliorisation. This dilemma is not confined to applied
linguistics and may now be endemic in the applied disciplines.The book
has been updated throughout and provides an excellent introduction to
the problems and issues that arise in the practice of applied
linguistics. Key Features: *Surveys current issues in applied
linguistics, including the concept of the Native Speaker and the
development of World Englishes*Examines the influence of linguistics,
cognitive science and philosophy on applied linguistics and makes a
contrast with educational linguistics*Proposes that a key issue for the
profession will increasingly be the tension between advice and
action*Suggests that applied linguistics is a theorising rather than a
theoretical discipline.Feedback on the first edition: 'Alan Davies'
introductory text forcefully re-echoes the famous Edinburgh series in
applied linguistics, which he contributed to in a major way.'Applied
Linguistics'Every discipline comin
