How does writing relate to speech? What impact does it have on social organisation and development? How do unwritten languages differ from those that have a written form and tradition? This book is a general account of the place of writing in society. Drawing on contemporary and historical examples, from clay tablets to touchscreen displays, the book explores the functions of writing and written language, analysing its consequences for language, society, economy and politics. It examines the social causes of illiteracy, demonstrating that institutions of central importance to modern society are built upon writing and written texts, and are characterised by specific forms of communication. It explores the social dimensions of spelling and writing reform, as well as of digital literacy, a new mode of expression and communication posing novel challenges to the student of language in society.

‘A masterpiece both because of its erudition and its coherent perspective.'

David Olson - University of Toronto

‘… shows a broad awareness of cultural history, coupled with a detailed knowledge of writing and its development, putting language, and written language in particular, at the core of human culture from Greek voting systems in the fifth century BCE to text messaging in the twenty-first AD. If only more linguists could write with the authority, the intellectual depth and the humanity displayed here.’

Vivian Cook - Emeritus Professor, Newcastle University