Natural language processing (NLP) for language, culture, and ethics

Abstract

Natural Language Processing has expanded beyond a technical discipline to become a significant cultural and ethical force shaping communication, meaning making, and linguistic representation. Although prior research has examined its pedagogical applications, a clear research gap persists regarding how NLP systems mediate cultural meaning and ethical values within digital environments. This study aims to critically examine the role of NLP in representing cultures and moral perspectives, with particular attention to issues of inclusion, bias, and linguistic justice. The study employs an interpretive qualitative analytical methodology that integrates content analysis of selected NLP applications with a critical examination of algorithmic design principles and linguistic data sources. The analysis reveals that while NLP systems broaden multilingual access and communication, they frequently reproduce dominant cultural hierarchies and marginalize less represented languages and worldviews. Models that intentionally integrate sociolinguistic diversity, equitable data practices, and community participation demonstrate greater fairness and inclusivity. The study proposes a Culturally Aware Ethical NLP framework that emphasizes ethical data governance, transparent system design, and participatory development. The findings contribute to ongoing debates on responsible artificial intelligence and highlight the need to align technological innovation with cultural equity and ethical accountability.

Keywords: Artificial intelligence ethics; cultural representation; language diversity; natural language processing; technological bias