Mediated Multilingual Interactions. Suggestions for a game theoretic framework

Abstract

This paper aims to briefly describe the basic methodology of the economic model Game Theory and suggest how it can be used as a framework for analysing mediated and non-mediated multilingual intercultural encounters. It suggests that a game theoretic framework can be adopted to view, rationalize and understand the (seemingly) rational choices speakers make vis-à-vis their interlocutors in a multilingual intercultural situation. A game theoretic framework can shed light on the choices speakers make. These choices are inevitably built on and constructed through precepts and assumptions but also expectations regarding the interlocutors’ pragmatic and linguacultural discourse patterns. Choices will depend on the information (or lack of it) that is available to speakers regarding the immediate situation and regarding the interlocutor’s knowledge and expectations. The paper focuses on issues such as mutual (non)-comprehension, intercultural dimensions, accommodation, power-negotiation and facework when used in intercultural communication. It suggests that Game Theory can provide an additional terminological and conceptual framework to evaluate and analyse interlocutors’ behaviour, expectations, decisions and desired outcomes, providing opportunities to better understand the underlying behavioural and decision-making dynamics in multilingual communication.