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Several of us linguists at that time would record our own…

“Several of us linguists at that time would record our own kids, just to get some data. There was some literature on it then, but no day-by-day, blow-by-blow examples. I recorded all my children over the years in some shape or form. It's what linguists do. You don't talk to a linguist without…” quote by David Crystal
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“Several of us linguists at that time would record our own kids, just to get some data. There was some literature on it then, but no day-by-day, blow-by-blow examples. I recorded all my children over the years in some shape or form. It's what linguists do. You don't talk to a linguist without having what you say taken down and used in evidence against you at some point in time.”

David Crystal

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Linguists often record children’s speech to gather natural data, even though it can later be used as evidence against them.

In simple terms: Linguists record kids’ speech for data, which can later be used against them.

Key Takeaway

Be aware of how your words may be recorded and used.

Themes

language research ethics data collection

Mood

reflective cautious

Type

analytical ethical

When to use this quote

  • fieldwork
  • academic research
  • parental monitoring
  • legal contexts

Key Concepts

speech analysis privacy evidence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance research needs with participants’ rights?
  • What safeguards protect recorded speech?
A Different Perspective

Recording may infringe on privacy and consent.

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