Normative Pragmatics

Normative pragmatics is a field within linguistics and philosophy that studies how people should use language appropriately in social contexts, based on shared rules or norms. It explores the principles that guide effective and respectful communication, such as being clear, relevant, and considerate of others’ beliefs and intentions. While it includes analyzing actual language use, it emphasizes how speakers can and ought to communicate harmoniously to achieve mutual understanding, adhering to social expectations and conventions. In essence, it guides us on how to speak and interpret language in ways that are socially acceptable and functionally effective.