The Constrained Title

Titles and addresses are a factor in pragmatics that impact perception. The leader of El Ejército Zapatista de Liberación Nacional (EZLN) chose to give himself a military title that is lower in rank to others. Subcomandante Marcos’ deliberate decision was strategic and has to do with the intention to create a perception that the organization is collaborative rather than hierarchical [ibid to come]. While he is a sub-commander, there are a number of indigenous commanders and this can also be seen as a way to ameliorate criticisms that an educated elite is leading an indigenous revolution.