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This book presents an investigation of a number of areas of interest in the study of language change, dealing in particular with questions of how patterns of pronunciation vary across both time and space. Most of the illustrative material is drawn from non-standard dialects of English, especially the varieties spoken in Ireland (Hiberno-English). The theoretical issues discussed include the following: what role do articulatory and linguistic constraints play in determining the direction of sound change? How do social and political pressures influence the resolution of competition between conflicting local non-standard linguistic norms? Besides addressing such general issues, the book also offers insights into several specific areas in the history of English, both in its standard and vernacular forms. It will thus be of interest to English-language specialists as well as to historical linguists, sociolinguists and phonologists.

Drawing on interviews with British rock stars, celebrities, and political experts, a music journalist describes the rise and fall of the 1990s cultural movement called Britpop. Original. 25,000 first

'The loveliest -- and certainly the most human -- book about pop music I've ever read ! A delightful and humane soap opera, a real page-turner, full of rounded and entirely recognisable characters.'

Draws on original interviews with band members and supporting cast to give the story of the making of one of the most successful and acclaimed albums of all time, and examines the group's history.

In Enhancing Evolution, leading bioethicist John Harris dismantles objections to genetic engineering, stem-cell research, designer babies, and cloning and makes an ethical case for biotechnology that

Since 1980, in-the-know computer gamers have been enthralled by the unpredictable, random, and incredibly deep gameplay of Rogue and those games inspired by it, known to fans as 'roguelikes.'