EXPERIMENTAL ANALYSIS OF ETHNIC STEREOTYPE PERCEPTION IN KAZAKH, RUSSIAN, ENGLISH, FRENCH AND ARABIC HUMOROUS DISCOURSE

Abstract

The article summarizes the results of a comprehensive experimental research aimed at analyzing the peculiarities of ethnic stereotype perception in humorous texts as portrayed through Kazakh, Russian, English, French and Arabic jokes. The purpose of the study is to identify common and distinctive features of ethnic humor perception and examine how stereotypical representations influence the interpretation of ethnic jokes and anecdotes reflecting the national character of different ethnic groups.

An associative experiment was conducted among various ethnic groups living in the Republic of Kazakhstan and abroad, who evaluated the degree of appropriate usage of ethnic jokes in an intercultural context as well as the level of their susceptibility to ethnic stereotypes. Furthermore, the statistical data processing method enabled the authors to obtain accurate and reliable information from experiment participants. The descriptive and comparative analysis methods were applied to identify basic mechanisms of ethnic stereotype formation and functioning in humorous discourse across different linguocultures.

The research findings suggest that ethnic stereotypes in various humorous texts, on the one hand, may elicit similar reactions among representatives of different cultures, but on the other hand, they are likely to be perceived and interpreted only within particular cultural traditions. The study proves that ethnic stereotypes in Kazakh jokes reflect ancient Kazakh traditions and values, whereas ethnic jokes about various nationalities from Russia or the former Soviet Union countries can lead to the spread of discrimination. Ethnic stereotypes in English jokes are usually expressed by using self-irony and wordplay. French humor demonstrates a higher tolerance toward ethnic stereotypes, possibly due to the adoption of anti-discrimination laws in the country. Arab-Muslim culture has a more restrained tendency to use ethnic stereotypes in jokes, which is influenced by certain religious beliefs.

The research practical significance is determined by the fact that the results obtained can be used by specialists in the field of linguistics, ethnopsycholinguistics, linguocultural studies, discourse, intercultural communication and media industry. Consequently, the research findings contribute to understanding basic mechanisms of ethnic stereotype formation through the lens of humor and their role in intercultural communication. Finally, the research main conclusions and outcomes can be used to create intercultural dialogue and prevent ethnocultural conflicts.