The study of variation and change is at the heart of sociolinguistics. Providing a wide survey of the field, this textbook is organised around three constraints on variation: linguistic structure, social structure and identity, and social and linguistic perception.<BR><BR>By considering both structure and meaning, Scott F. Kiesling examines the most important issues surrounding variation theory, including canonical studies and terms, as well as challenges to them. Research in non-English and non-European contexts is also addressed.<BR><BR>Key Topics<BR><BR>The linguistic variable and its status<BR><BR>Sociolinguistic methods<BR><BR>The description of variable patterns<BR><BR>Linguistic and social structure<BR><BR>Social meaning and perception.