Deconstructing Ethnic Humor: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Jokes about Pathans in English Language Teaching

Abstract

This study employs Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) to examine humor related to Pathans, an ethnically marginalized minority, within the context of English Language Teaching (ELT). Jokes are linguistic manifestations that reflect societal concepts, hierarchies of authority, and cultural norms. They offer valuable perspectives on intercultural communication and the perpetuation of prejudices. This study is a qualitative research methodology that incorporates Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) techniques to investigate the linguistic, sociological, and ideological dimensions present in jokes pertaining to Pathans. The methodology is a systematic approach to collecting, evaluating, and interpreting data, guided by careful engagement and ethical considerations. The study examines the linguistic and discursive structures of jokes about Pathans, the underlying ideologies and power dynamics, their contribution to the perpetuation of stereotypes, and the ethical implications of analyzing humor related to marginalized groups in English Language Teaching (ELT). The objective of this study is to analyze the impact of comedy on language and society, with the intention of fostering thoughtful dialogue, advancing inclusivity, and making a meaningful contribution to social justice within the realm of English Language Teaching (ELT) and other cultural settings.