Just a Joke is not a Joke, Stereotyping Ethnic Groups in Pakistan: A Linguistic Study

Abstract

The formal, functional, and social aspects of discourse are examined in this study using social media data to look at how ethnic stereotypes and prejudices are spread and promoted in Pakistan through sugar-coated jokes. The formal aspect (Harris, 1970) examines syntactic constructs and lexical choices that contribute to the formation of stereotypes. The functional aspect of ethnic stereotypes, according to Halliday and Matthiessen (2013), is on the communicative roles they play, such as establishing group boundaries, expressing prejudice, or reiterating power relations. Lastly, the social component (Foucault, 1970) considers larger social and cultural contexts that impact the adoption of ethnic group stereotypes. The study emphasizes the need of promoting inclusive, courteous speech that values diversity and multiculturalism as well as increasing awareness of how language impacts social relationships. To foster a positive and tolerant culture requires confronting damaging stereotypes and misconceptions.