SMS Text-Messaging and the Nigerian Christian Context: Constructing Values and Sentiments

Chiluwa, Innocent (2008) SMS Text-Messaging and the Nigerian Christian Context: Constructing Values and Sentiments. International Journal of Language, Society and Culture, 24. pp. 11-20. ISSN 1327-774X

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Abstract

The Global System of Mobile Communications (GSM) in Nigeria brought with it a variety of English that is situationally distinct and context sensitive. Thus SMS text-messages are viewed as discourses that presuppose speech events among interlocutors that share a common social behaviour and cultural values. This study shows the extent to which test-messaging constructs Christian values, belief systems and sentiments in Nigeria. Fifty-three (53) text samples collected in Lagos and Ota areas of Southwest Nigeria between 2005 and 2007 are analysed within the framework of computer-mediated discourse analysis (Herring 2001). Result shows that with its peculiar orthographic convention and style, text-messaging has become popular among Christian adherents not just because it is short, cheap and fast but that it is individualistic and fits well into a context where respect for individuals is emphasized. Analysis also shows that SMS text-messaging is used to disseminate messages associated with faith-based pronouncements, prayer and well-wishing, admonition and assurance, appreciation and praise, seasons greetings and general information/announcements. These functions tend to promote love and cooperation among church members. Key words: SMS-text messages, Christian, Discourse Introduction The

Item Type:	Article
Uncontrolled Keywords:	SMS-text messages, Christian, Discourse
Subjects:	P Language and Literature > P Philology. Linguistics
Divisions:	Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences > School of Humanities
Depositing User:	Dr. Innocent Chiluwa
Date Deposited:	27 Nov 2012 14:53
Last Modified:	04 Sep 2015 13:56
URI:	http://eprints.covenantuniversity.edu.ng/id/eprint/845

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