The function and significance of newly created ethnic minority writing systems during cultural transition: Taking the Hani, Lisu, and Naxi ethnic minorities as examples

Abstract

New writing systems for several of China’s minority languages were developed and implemented during a unique period in Chinese history. Throughout the different stages of modern Chinese history, these writing systems have had various societal functions and uses, including the improvement of education and literacy for China’s ethnic minorities. In the new era, the societal functions of these newly created systems have been weakened by the large-scale influence from both outside and within minority environment. Nevertheless, the newly created writing systems have undeniable value and significance, and they continue to serve positive functions that cannot be fulfilled by other writing systems.

Keywords

newly created writing systems / cultural transition / structural-functional theory / Hani / Lisu / Naxi