Which influence does language's evolution, as studied by Joshua Fishman, often relate to?

Joshua Fishman's study of language evolution emphasizes the significant impact of societal forces and cultural context on how languages develop and change over time. He explored how factors such as social structures, cultural practices, and community dynamics shape language usage and preservation. This perspective highlights that language is not just a system of communication but is deeply intertwined with identity, power relations, and cultural interactions within a community or society. By focusing on these elements, Fishman's work illustrates that understanding language evolution requires a comprehensive view of the societal factors that influence language practices, such as migration, societal values, and community cohesion.

In contrast, while technological advancements, literary traditions, and geopolitical changes can also influence language, Fishman's primary focus was on the social and cultural dimensions that significantly impact language maintenance and shift. This makes societal forces and cultural context the most relevant influence in Fishman's research on language evolution.