Abstract
In this chapter I draw on the insights of social movement theory in order to propose
an analytical approach to the study of school-based minority language
revitalization movements. In particular, I propose a framework that centers on
neoinstitutionalist theory. Neoinstitutionalism posits that the relative
‘success’ of any movement hinges heavily upon the capacity of actors to marshal
forth empowering forms of capital or ‘resources’ within a broader landscape of
structural limitations and possibilities (Buechler, 1993, Edwards & McCarthy,
2004; McCarthy & Zald, 1987). Building on the basic principles of social movement theory, I outlinea novel framework and then illustrate it through an analysis of a school-based revitalization movement in the French Basque Country known as the ‘ikastola movement.’ Data are drawn from several periods of fieldwork that I conducted in the French Basque Country in 2002, 2004 and 2007-08. By way of conclusion, I suggest future avenues of research beyond the Basque context.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Revitalizing Minority Voices: Language Issues in the New Millenium |
Editors | Renee De Palma, Diane Brook Napier, Willibrond Dze-Ngwa |
Publisher | Sense Publishers |
Pages | 51-70 |
ISBN (Print) | 9789463001854 |
Publication status | Published - 2014 |