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SEEING WITHOUT SIGHT: PSYCHOGEOGRAPHY OF VISUALLY CHALLENGED SUBJECTIVITIES IN SELECTED WORKS OF DOERR, HINGSON AND PAMUK This research study attempts to discover dynamics of psychogeography as lived experience of people without sight by conducting a phenomenological study of blindness as experienced by characters in the following literary works: All The Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr, My Name Is Red by Orhan Pamuk, and Thunder Dog by Michael Hingson and Susie Flory. I have applied theoretical concepts from Marie’s Marlowe Ponty’s Phenomenology of Perception such as, the definition of phenomena phenomenal field and transcendental phenomenological reduction along with sense, perception and proprioception. In addition to this, I have used definitions of psychogeography by Guy Debord and of sight, blindness and disability by Rod Michalko as a lens to analyze the persona of blindness as depicted in characters from selected works. The major dynamics of psychogeography as experienced in blindness found in these novels are as follows: The socio-psycho inequality experienced in an ocular-centric world is an inherent element of experiencing blindness but does not necessarily allude to its being a misfortune. The subsequent skillset required to mitigate the resultant situation constructs an alternative reality which centers on a vision created by interacting with respective surroundings via other sensory modalities. One of the core constituents which lends validity and stability to the resultant conception of people, places and things is the emotional responses they incur. While the core constituents of these experiences are similar, the constructed realities are as diverse as the emotions created by the subjects experiencing blindness, and the means with which they are experienced. Moreover, these three works explicitly describe the use of assistive devices coupled with imagination and habitual memory as methods of not only navigating their psychosocial environs in their respective geographies, but also of living the beauty experienced in art and existence alike. This research would provide literature students, along with students of sociology and psychology, a new lens to study and perceive people with blindness and other disabilities: not solely under the presumptuous edicts of mainstream narrative but rather as people with diverse abilities. It would also help them to critically analyze societal values, customs, and beliefs as represented in literature. This might prove to be a stepping stone towards a better future for the stereotypically portrayed and marginalized groups in a given societal structure.
TOWARDS A RACELESS FUTURE: A MAGICAL REALIST STUDY OF MOHSIN HAMID’S EXIT WEST (2017) AND THE LAST WHITE MAN (2022) The present research examines two novels by Mohsin Hamid: Exit West (2017) and The Last White Man (2022). It focuses on the lived experiences and consequent repercussions affecting racially and ethnically marginalized individuals residing in white supremacist societies, which subject them to systemic segregation and dehumanization. The study posits a vision for a future where the concept of race is superseded, not through the erasure of individual racial or ethnic identities, but through the dismantling of race as a socially constructed paradigm that perpetuates injustice and fosters a society where individuals of color are not only scorned and deemed inferior based on their skin color, but also subjected to violence and severe psychological trauma. Since it is imperative to acknowledge the existence of a problem before its eradication, envisioning a future free from racism necessitates an initial recognition of the profound extent to which such prejudicial constructs have permeated societal structures. Therefore, the theoretical framework of the present study is informed by the underpinnings of critical race theory, magical realism, and Jeremy Griffith's propositions regarding the end of the human condition. This blend highlights the intersection of racial violence and its psychological toll on victims, while also foregrounding the subsequent journey towards acceptance and appreciation of diversity. This qualitative research employs Cathrine Belsey’s textual analysis to examine selected literary works: Exit West (2017) and The Last White Man (2022). Through this, the researcher attempts to show that despite being critical of racism, Hamid presents an optimistic view, hinting towards harmony and coexistence of people of different colors and origins. Hence, in an attempt to contribute to the existing body of knowledge, this study brings up some of the revolutionary explanations of the “human condition” presented by leading Australian biologist Jeremy Griffith in his book FREEDOM: The End of Human Condition (2019), which can aid in the eradication of racism and lead humankind towards a future free of prejudice and hatred.
LANGUAGE OF CONFLICT: A CORPUS- BASED STUDY OF SEMANTIC PROSODY IN PRINT MEDIA DISCOURSE ON THE RUSSIA-UKRAINE WAR The ongoing war in Ukraine has garnered significant global media attention, including Print media of many countries. However, there is a gap in linguistic research exploring how English newspapers from different countries portray the Ukraine crisis. Understanding how language constructs meaning and shapes public opinion is essential, and this can be achieved by analyzing the lexical choices and co-textual patterns in these portrayals. This study aims to conduct a corpus-driven analysis of the semantic prosody employed by English newspapers in their portrayal of the Russia- Ukraine war. By examining lexical choices and co-textual patterns, the research seeks to uncover how these elements convey subjective opinions and contribute to the wider media discourse surrounding the conflict. The research adopts a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative techniques to analyze the language used in the selected newspapers to depict the conflict. Using corpus tool AntConc three separate corpora were collected from six newspapers in the USA, Russia, and Pakistan. The data spans from February 24, 2022, to February 24, 2023, with a focus on opinion pieces, editorials, and news stories. The study employs Baker's (2006) corpus-assisted critical discourse analysis framework. The study reveals distinct semantic prosodies in how newspapers from each country depict key terms related to the conflict. American newspapers predominantly frame Russia's actions as violations of international norms, while Russian media adopts a defensive stance. Pakistani newspapers present a more neutral perspective. Terms such as "Ukraine," "NATO," "invasion," and "sanctions" are framed differently across the countries, reflecting their respective stances on the conflict. This research underscores the critical role of language in shaping national narratives and public perceptions of the Russia-Ukraine war. The findings highlight the importance of media literacy in understanding geopolitical conflicts. Further research is encouraged to examine how linguistic representations in the media influence public opinion and policy.
LANGUAGE AS A LINGUISTIC CAPITAL IN ACCESS TO JUSTICE: A STUDY OF ENGLISH AND URDU IN THE LEGAL SYSTEM OF PAKISTAN Title: Language as a Linguistic Capital in Access to Justice: A Study of English and Urdu in the Legal System of Pakistan This study investigates the power of language as linguistic capital in affecting access to justice in Pakistan, with a specific emphasis on English and Urdu in legal communication. Applying Pierre Bourdieu's theory of linguistic capital, the study examines how language proficiency and official preference determine people's ability to interact effectively in legal processes. A quantitative research approach was employed, with 100 respondents—50 lawyers and 50 litigants—selected by probability-based stratified sampling from Rawalpindi district courts. The data was obtained using a closed-ended questionnaire. The sample corresponded to gender, age, income, and residence. The data was analyzed through SPSS and descriptive statistical techniques. The findings highlight that, irrespective of its dominance in legal settings, English creates significant obstacles for litigants and even lawyers, most frequently hindering understanding, participation, and procedural rights. However, Urdu has been perceived as a more easily understood and successful means of communication in the legal system. The research asserts that English operates as a type of linguistic capital that contributes to a socioeconomically privileged class, whereas it marginalizes the majority, perpetuating current systems of power. Urdu must be used as a legal language to promote access to justice and improve the quality of legal communication. The findings indicate the need for an Urdu-inclusive legal system that stimulates more justice and public trust in the legal system. This study complements broader discussions regarding language equality and postcolonial legal reforms by reiterating the necessity for policy modifications that ensure that justice is not linguistically confined but must be readily available to everyone
GENDER REPRESENTATION IN THE SINGLE NATIONAL CURRICULUM TEXTBOOKS OF ENGLISH: A CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS Title: Gender Representation in the Single National Curriculum Textbooks of English: A Critical Discourse Analysis This study examines gender representation in textbooks of English through the lens of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA). Azad Kashmir textbook board designed these textbooks according to the instructions of Single National curriculum (2020). This study aims to uncover how language is used to represent gender in terms of roles assigned to male and female, activities associated with male and female, omission pattern for male and female, use of adjectives for male and female, pattern of firstness, Use of Generic Masculine noun, Unit titles analysis for role models and Color association with male and female. The researcher also analyzes what gender related ideologies are reflected in the selected textbooks of English. Mullet (2018) General Analytical Framework for CDA is used to analyze textual data and results revealed gender imbalances. Analysis shows that male characters are mostly depicted in social/public and professional roles, such as army personnel, businessmen, drivers etc. while, female characters are mostly confined to domestic roles such as cooking, caregiving and cleaning. Similarly, the representation of gender through adjectives is also stereotypical. In addition, omission of females from social and professional roles and outdoor activities and men from domestic activities shows inequality. Analysis also shows that men appear as role models in 10 unit titles while women feature only in two. As far as this theme of masculine generic noun is concerned, there are 13 instances of using masculine generic nouns. Lastly, for the theme of firstness analysis shows twenty instances of male-first ordering as compared to only eight for females. Such representation of gender propagates certain gender related ideologies, which include patriarchy, misogyny, gender Inequality, and gender binary. Findings reveal that there is a significant gender imbalance in the selected textbooks of English and there is a need for a more balanced and inclusive portrayal of gender in educational materials.
UNRAVELING LINGUISTIC CHALLENGES: EXPLORING THE ROLE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN ONLINE HATE SPEECH AND HARASSMENT Title: Unraveling Linguistic Challenges: Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Online Hate Speech and Harassment The present research explores the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the detection of online hate speech and the linguistic challenges encountered during the process. Grounded in Socio-Technical Systems Theory (STS) and Discourse Ethics Theory, the study investigates the linguistic challenges and ethical issues encountered by AI systems in identifying hate speech across diverse linguistic and cultural contexts. The research employed a mixed-method approach combining both quantitative and qualitative analyses. For the quantitative phase, the data was collected from online available datasets on websites such as Kaggle and Google Data Search. The analysis provided linguistic features and patterns of online hate speech on online platforms. It revealed that Twitter is the most widely used online platform for the spread of hate speech. Moreover, the analysis measured the frequency and percentage distribution of hate speech and confirmed that political hate speech is the most prevalent, followed by racism and religious hate speech. For the qualitative phase, interviews were conducted with 10 AI experts, working in different institutions. The interviews revealed several linguistic and ethical challenges faced by the AI models while detecting online hate speech. Some of these include the complexity of hate speech, lack of diversity of datasets on which the models are trained and the lack of contextual understanding. The present research contributes to the field of linguistics by advocating ethical AI systems and providing future recommendations for researchers and stakeholders. The findings underscore the significance of AI collaboration in ensuring transparency, and in tackling the evolving and complex nature of online hate speech. By analyzing the linguistic and ethical challenges, the research paves the way for more inclusive and effective AI systems, ultimately contributing to equitable and safer online environments.
MOVING BEYOND THE CRIME SCENE: UNVEILING THE IDEOLOGICAL CANVAS IN SELECTED PAKISTANI DETECTIVE FICTION This thesis explores the intersection of ideology, power, and resistance in Pakistani Anglophone detective fiction through the lens of Louis Althusser’s concept of ideological state apparatuses (ISAs) and Slavoj Žižek’s notions of the ‘typical’ and the ‘stand-in.’ Focusing on The House of Fear (1955) by Ibn-e-Safi, The Doomsday Deception (1987) by Ishtiaq Ahmed, and The Prisoner (2013) by Omar Shahid Hamid, the study examines how these novels portray ideological dynamics within Pakistan’s cultural and historical contexts. By analyzing the role of literature, media, law enforcement, and religious institutions as ISAs, this research investigates how detective fiction critiques or reinforces prevailing structures of ideology and power. The thesis further explores the ways in which protagonists navigate ideological forces, either upholding or subverting dominant narratives of authority and justice. Through narrative techniques, character development, and thematic concerns, these novels highlight systemic corruption, socio-economic disparities, and political influences, revealing detective fiction as a potent medium for social critique. Additionally, Žižek’s framework of the ‘stand-in’ and the ‘typical’ is applied to examine how these works reflect broader ideological struggles, positioning the detective figure as both an enforcer and a disruptor of hegemonic power. By situating these texts within their socio-political milieu, this research demonstrates that Pakistani detective fiction functions not merely as entertainment but as a significant literary space where ideology is negotiated, contested, and redefined. In doing so, it contributes to broader discussions on the role of genre fiction in shaping and reflecting cultural discourses on justice, authority, and resistance.
Acquisition of Morpho-syntactic Features by ESL Learners: A Case Study of Undergraduate Students in KP, Pakista Descriptive writing is a crucial aspect of communication, widely used across various contexts. For second-language learners, acquiring writing skills is a continuous process that requires sustained instruction. However, frequent morphosyntactic errors in ESL learners’ writing present significant challenges. This study examines these errors in the descriptive writing of undergraduate students in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The research addresses one question: (1) What are the morph-syntactic errors made by ESL learners at the undergraduate level in Swat? Using a qualitative case study approach, the study focuses on 7th-semester BS English students from public-sector colleges affiliated with the University of Swat. Data were collected through descriptive essays on the topic “A Lesson in Your Urdu or English Course Book Which You Cannot Forget.” These essays were analyzed using thematic analysis techniques within the framework of Processability Theory (Pienemann, 1998), offering a structured approach to understanding morphosyntactic development. Findings revealed that ESL learners’ progress through a predictable developmental stage, yet full mastery of advanced morphosyntactic features remains incomplete. Common errors include omission, addition, overgeneralizations, which highlight persistent challenges. The study emphasizes the interdependence between morphological and syntactic development, advocating for instructional approaches aligned with learners’ developmental stages. Targeted strategies can enhance language acquisition and further research on Processability Theory-based methods is recommended to improve ESL learning outcomes.
LINGUSITIC LANDSCAPE AS SPATIAL PRACTICE: A NEXUS ANALYSIS Lingusitic landscape refers to the use of language in public spaces. In the context of Pakistan, although linguistic landscape (LL) research is not scarce, many studies overlook the crucial connection between LL practices and language policies. Additionally, there is a lack of research exploring the LL of metropolitan cities, Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar, from the perspectives of language policies and residents’ perceptions. While English and Urdu dominate the LL, it is essential to examine the extent to which this dominance aligns with broader language policies and local perceptions. Furthermore, the visibility (or invisibility) of emerging linguistic varieties and indigenous languages remains an underexplored area, particularly in terms of policymaking and public reception. This study aims to address these gaps. The current study investigates the linguistic landscape of four metropolitan cities: Islamabad, Peshawar, Lahore and Karachi. The research focuses on three interconnected domains, spatial practices, language policies and residents’ perception of languages. A sample of 4000 signs (1000 from each city) was collected from the four cities. The National Education Policy of 2017 document was downloaded from the website of Federal Ministry of Education and 8 focused group discussions (2 from each city) were conducted. Theoretically, the study was informed by Trumper-Hecht’s (2010) Triad Model for Linguistic Landscape and the analytical model ‘Nexus Analysis’ of Scollon and Scollon (2004), presented by Hult (2018), was used for the analysis of data. All signs collected from the survey areas were analyzed to find visibility and invisibility of languages and understand aesthetic features (placement and font size and style) and sociolinguistic features including variety of languages and translation strategies practiced in the linguistic landscape of the cities. The 2017 National Education Policy document and parliamentary media talks were analyzed via thematic analysis to unmask de jure and de facto language policies. Resident’s perception of languages was the third domain of the study. Eight focused group discussions were analyzed via thematic analysis. Finally, nexus analysis was used to connect all three domains of the linguistic landscape with the aim to find connects or disconnects across these three scales. The findings of the study reveal that English holds v a dominant position in the linguistic landscape of Islamabad, Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar followed by Urdu, Arabic and Chinese with a limited attention to regional languages. The de jure language policies favor English, Urdu and Arabic. However, the de facto language policies favor regional languages along with Urdu and English. The participants of the study highlighted preference for Urdu as the national language and lingua franca in the context of Pakistan along with the strategic use of English for branding and international communication. The findings of the study confirmed that a strong nexus exists among the three interrelated domains of the LL of the four metropolitan cities. However, challenges emerge regarding regional languages use in the linguistic landscape due to limited linguistic proficiency of the populace. The study accentuates the need for inclusive policies which safeguard linguistic diversity in Pakistan. The study recommends a well-balanced approach to language policies encompassing multilingualism, integrating regional languages in education, advocacy for linguistic diversity and ongoing research to monitor the dynamics of the linguistic landscape.
IMPROVING PAKISTANI COLLEGE STUDENTS’ ENGLISH LANGUAGE SKILLS USING AI-BASED APPLICATIONS: AN EXPERIMENTAL RESEARCH English language teaching/learning calls for innovations and modern teaching techniques. The penetration of Artificial Intelligence into human affairs has encouraged language teachers to step forward and experiment with teaching the English language through the use of AI-powered tools and techniques. The current study aimed at experimenting with the integration of AI-powered tools in English Language Teaching (ELT) within Pakistani college settings. The study implemented three AI-based Apps—'Readlee', 'Entelechy', and '@Voice Aloud Reader'—to enhance students' reading skills at one hand and speaking and writing skills on the other hand. The study was grounded in established theoretical frameworks to guide its design and interpretation. Grabe’s (2009) theory of reading informed the strategies used to enhance reading skills, while Bachman and Palmer’s (2010) model of language ability supported the development of writing and speaking competencies. Additionally, the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) framework was employed to understand students’ interaction with the AI-based applications. 50 participants were divided into experimental and control groups. Quantitative data sought from pre and post-tests were analyzed using SPSS whereas qualitative insights from participants’ interviews and observations were analysed through thematic analysis. The findings of the study revealed significant improvements in reading, writing, and speaking skills among the experimental group as compared to the control group. Moreover, the participants were found to have increased satisfaction and motivation for the application of AI tools in learning English. The study underscores AI's potential to overcome traditional barriers in ELT, offering automated feedback and consistent practice opportunities crucial for linguistic development. Ultimately, the findings advocate for the widespread adoption of AI-powered tools in Pakistani ESL education.
CYBERSPACES AND IDENTITY: A STUDY OF CYBERPSYCHOGEOGRAPHY IN THE SELECTED EURO-AMERICAN FICTION With increasing integration of human experiences into digital environments, contemporary society has entered a state where cyberspaces influence individual identities and interpersonal relationships. This study examines two contemporary EuroAmerican novels, Meatsapce (2014) by Nikesh Shukla and Super Sad True Love Story (2010) by Gary Shteyngart, through the lens of cyberpsychogeography; a theoretical framework merging psychogeography and cyberspace studies. This study incorporates the key theoretical concept of cyberpsychogeography, a term coined by Mark Amerika, along with related concepts such as cyberflânerie and cyberdérive, drawn from the works of Amy J. Elias and Rosane Ganley. The research explores how the novels depict characters navigating virtual environments shaped by cyberspaces. By tracing characters’ digital movements and emotional responses across online terrains, the study demonstrates how cyberspaces disrupt spatial continuity and emotional stability, leading to fractured identities and superficial connections. The analysis also incorporates these theories to understand the emotional and cognitive impacts of navigating within cyberspaces on the characters’ identities and interpersonal relationships. The theoretical framework serves to map how digital pathways mimic urban wandering, making visible the often-invisible psychological effects of algorithmdriven interaction on human behavior and social bonds. The study reveals that cyberspaces, acting as extensions of urban psychogeography, create fragmented identities and strained interpersonal connections. Characters exhibit altered temporal experiences and fluid selfhoods, grappling with the pervasive influence of algorithmically mediated interactions. Both novels critique the overreliance on digital environments, exposing their role in distorting human connections and undermining authentic engagements. The research argues that while cyberspaces offer opportunities for self-expression and exploration, they simultaneously highlight the vulnerabilities of identity and relationships within a digitally mediated society. These findings open avenues for further research into the psychological and sociocultural consequences of digital urbanism in literature and real-life contexts.
THE DEICTIC SYSTEMS OF PAHARI AND ENGLISH LANGUAGE: A PRAGMATIC STUDY The present study explores the deictic systems of the Pahari and English language, one of the most prominent features of any language. Deixis involving expressions like, ‘this’, ‘that’, ‘here’ and ‘now’ is essential in anchoring language to context. The researcher tried to unveil the pragmatic use of deixis in the Pahari language; a language spoken in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir by using the Levinson model of deixis. Data was collected using convenience sampling and the analysis reveals that while both languages share common deictic categories, Pahari exhibits greater contextual flexibility particularly in person and social deixis. In contrast English follows a more standardized pattern governs by formal grammar rule. The usage of pronouns is quite different in the Pahari language as compare to the English language. The first-person singular pronoun refers to the singular referent and the first-person plural pronoun refers to the plural referents deictically. However, sometimes first-person plural pronouns are used by the singular referent to refer to the overall professions to show harmony. The Pahari language has a complex second-person pronoun system compared t/ m, o English. It uses two forms: tu and tus, with tus used to address plural referents and tu for singular referents. The plural form is more polite and honorific, while the verb helps in gender distinction. Third-person pronouns do not indicate gender but are used as demonstratives and spatial deixis. Honorifics and honorific terms indicate social status and politeness. Polite forms and honorific terms are used to show respect and politeness. Temporal deixis helps in understanding time, with most prayer names indicating the time of the day. Demonstratives also play a role in discourse deixis. This study lays the groundwork for further linguistic and crosscultural research in multilingual settings
TRACING CONCEPTUAL METAPHORS, CONSTRUAL OPERATIONS, AND FRAME SEMANTICS IN CHATGPT AND HUMAN LANGUAGE: A COGNITIVE LINGUISTICS PERSPECTIVE This study investigated the cognitive mechanisms that shape the linguistic output of ChatGPT and human participants. Using the frameworks of Conceptual Metaphor Theory, Construal Operations, and Frame Semantics, the research explores whether and how AI-generated text reflects the cognitive strategies typically employed by human writers. This study adopted a mixed-methods approach. The researcher collected 100 essays written in response to CSS examination prompts, 50 composed by human participants and 50 by ChatGPT. The data underwent both statistical and qualitative analysis, using NLP tools, Corpus-Based software and cognitive semantic frameworks. The analysis revealed that both ChatGPT and human participants exhibit metaphorical reasoning and conceptual structuring, but they differ in the depth, coherence, and cultural grounding of their expressions. ChatGPT showcased an impressive ability to replicate human-like metaphors and frames but lacked the experiential and emotional anchoring which was evident in human responses. The findings indicated that while ChatGPT can produce syntactically better and metaphorically rich language, its expression lacks the embodied experience, cultural nuance, and intentional construal found in human linguistic expression. The study concluded that ChatGPT approximates human-like conceptual structures through probabilistic modeling rather than through genuine cognitive understanding. These insights contribute to ongoing debates in cognitive linguistics, artificial intelligence, and computational language modeling, and offer insightsfor both theoretical as well as practical inquiry regarding AI and language.
DETERRITORIALISING THE MODERN STATE: A POSTMODERN STUDY OF THE SELECTED WORKS This study analyses Teju Cole's Open City and Joseph O'Neill's Netherland to show how the nomads deterritorialise the modern state by problematising the binary of citizen/alien created by the logic of dualism. Drawing on nomadology and micropolitics by Deleuze and Guattari, and historiographic metafiction by Hutcheon in a supporting role, this thesis discusses how Julius in Open City and Chuck in Netherland deterritorialise themselves and the modern state. Firstly, the study attempts to explore how the nomadic characters portrayed in the novels deterritorialise themselves. The analysis of my primary texts reveals that Julius achieves deterritorialisation and creates his nomadic subjectivity through his practice of psychiatry, aimless wanderings, choice of music, and rejection of racial categorisation. Chuck does so through contingencies, the deterritorialisation of friendship and romantic relationship, and detachment from his homeland. Secondly, the analysis shows how the nomadic characters deterritorialise the modern state. Julius, in Open City, uses his wanderings through the city as a medium of deterritorialisation of the modern state. He along with Chuck in Netherland carries out historical inquiry to challenge the internal coherent self, which is central to the formation of national identity. The historical inquiry, performed by the nomads, challenges the state’s ability to define who is included and who is not within its boundaries. Furthermore, both Open City and Netherland use the gray zone of the immigrants to challenge the logic of dualism of the modern state. Thirdly, the study highlights the dangers of the line of flight as portrayed in the novels. It contributes to the scholarly debate on 9/11 fiction by focusing on the deterritorialisation of the modern state