Dr. Richard Watts

Biography

Richard Watts is Professor Emeritus of Modern English Linguistics at the University of Bern, Switzerland. He has established himself as one of the world's leading experts in the field of linguistic politeness and has a keen interest in the socio-historical study of the English language, particularly with reference to the development of Standard English and its sociolinguistic implications. His research interests span various aspects of English language teaching in Switzerland, pragmatics, narrative theory, and the analysis of lexical borrowings in Swiss German dialects. His work often intersects with broader themes of social practices within institutions, such as the family. Beyond his academic pursuits, Watts has engaged with the folk music tradition of the British Isles, enjoying a rich personal repertoire. He has authored and edited numerous publications that explore the significance of politeness in language as well as the dynamics of English usage in multilingual and multicultural contexts.

Research Interests

Experience