In all cultures the basic purpose of naming is to provide a symbolic system of individual identification. This kind of symbolic system is usually historically constructed, socially maintained, and based on shared assumptions and expectations of members of a particular community. On the basis of a broad survey of the functions of names in a range of cultures, critically examine the way in which there are variations in the relative importance of individual identification, the place of the individual within their society, the creation of links between individuals, and the recording of individual history.
If you could please follow this plan in general that would be great:
Outline of essay:
What is naming?
What is its purpose?
What influences how we use it?
CONTEXT
Its significance within the culture
Semantics/connotations – PC and Taboo
Its effects on the individual and society