Labov's Principle of Accountability

Labov's Principle of Accountability refers to the idea that speakers are responsible for providing justifiable explanations for their statements, particularly when discussing general knowledge. When people communicate, they should back up their claims and ensure that their statements can be verified or understood by others. This principle emphasizes the importance of clarity and evidence in communication, ensuring that information shared contributes to mutual understanding and can be trusted by listeners. Essentially, it holds individuals accountable for their words, fostering more reliable dialogue and debate.