We can change how we speak to some extent, whether by "code-switching" between dialects or learning a new language. But for the most part we are forever marked by our native tongue-and are hardwired to prejudge others by theirs, often with serious consequences. Your accent alone can determine the economic opportunity or discrimination you encounter in life, making speech one of the most urgent social-justice issues of our day. Provided by publisher.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

How you speak is who you are --Native tongues -- How language divides us -- Deep talk -- Little bigots? -- On the basis of speech -- A linguistics revolution.