Systemic functional linguistics (SFL) as a sociolinguistic conception: possibilities and limits of theoretical framework
Systemic functional linguistics (SFL) as a sociolinguistic conception: possibilities and limits of theoretical framework

Summary/Abstract: The paper examines the possibilities and limits of Systemic functional linguistics theoretical framework. SFL concept was associated with the ideas of social justice and equality, equal opportunities. The most interesting ideas arose when the SFL representatives thought about the development of English as a native language and were connected with the overcoming of class distinctions. The current version –genre-based approach – has serious limits. Desire of a genre-based approach for the systematization of genres carries a risk of cultural contradictions and conflict of cultures. However, the basic theoretical SFL principles are still in the stage of formation, as SFL researchers seek to avoid some rigidity of the classical institutional (genre) approach, which is in contradiction with the principles of diversity. Thefounder M. Halliday offered ideas for the organization of a flexible approach on the basis of InternationalEnglish that “has expanded by becoming world Englishes, evolving so as to adapt to the meanings of other cultures” (Halliday, 2003: 416). So an SFL approach still needs some alterations to spread outside the Western world and conform to the new culture for it. Besides, we can think about proposals of Halliday’s supporters to develop the own version of English for non-Western countries, considering its culture and mentality.

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