In an age where language profoundly shapes our social lives, identities, and global interactions, the study of linguistics stands at the heart of understanding what it means to be human. Men in Linguistics is an interview-based academic initiative that aims to highlight the voices, lives, and contributions of renowned linguists from around the world. Through thoughtful and engaging conversations, this project brings scholars out from behind their published work and into open dialogue with a broader audience—students, researchers, and the linguistically curious alike.
Importantly, the title “Men in Linguistics” uses the word men in its broader, humanistic sense—meaning human beings or mankind, and not as a reference to biological or gender identity. The series is inclusive of all individuals whose research, teaching, and intellectual work have helped shape and inspire the field of linguistics. It is a celebration of scholarly thought and personal journey, regardless of gender.
Each interview offers a space for reflection on not just academic research, but also on the lived experiences that guide a linguist’s path: their early curiosities, the obstacles they faced, the questions that drive them, and the insights they hope to leave behind. The aim is to humanize scholarship and remind us that behind every theory or model lies a deeply personal story—often shaped by culture, community, and personal conviction.
We are pleased to announce two upcoming interviews in the Men in Linguistics series. On July 14, we will be speaking with Dr. Michael Cheyt, a distinguished expert in language variation and historical linguistics. Then, on July 19, we will welcome Dr. Shuan Osman Karim, a Kurdish-American linguist whose work bridges issues of language, identity, and diaspora. Both interviews will be held online and open to all.
Join us in exploring the minds behind the discipline—and the human stories within the science of language.