The relativistic viewpoint of the sociolinguist emphasizes the fully systematic but different nature of nonstandard dialects. In this paper, the author takes issue with various views that currently enjoy popularity in a number of disciplines but which violate basic linguistic and sociolinguistic premises about the nature of language. These views are often communicated to and adopted by those in a position which directly affects the lives of many ghetto children. Furthermore, these views have a direct bearing on the attitude of both white and black middle class teachers toward Black English. The attitudinal problem towards this intricate and unique language system is probably the biggest problem faced. But there is also a practical reason for understanding some linguistic and sociolinguistic premises about the nature of language with reference to nonstandard dialects. An understanding of systematic differences between nonstandard dialects and standard English must serve as a basis for the most effective teaching of standard English. See related document ED 029 280. (Author/DO)