The Story of English episode 1 - An English Speaking World - Part 1 / 7

Summary

This script delves into the global influence of the English language, tracing its reach across air traffic control, international communication, pop culture, and the world’s media. It explores how English dominates sectors like music, trade, and technology, while also highlighting its influence on politics, with references to the Cold War. The script also touches on the evolution of English varieties, particularly focusing on the role of British public schools in shaping accents and perceptions of the 'proper' way to speak, emphasizing that English is a dynamic, borderless language with diverse forms worldwide.

Takeaways

• 😀 English has become a universal language, transcending borders and being used in diverse global fields.
• 😀 The influence of English is particularly strong in air traffic control, with English being the language of communication in 157 countries.
• 😀 English is the dominant language in global media, including movies, pop culture, and music, even in non-English speaking countries.
• 😀 The spread of English has affected over a billion people worldwide through travel, tourism, and technology.
• 😀 A significant portion of the world's communications, including 75% of texts and telegrams, is in English.
• 😀 English is the primary language of global trade, with major commodities being exchanged using English.
• 😀 The Internet and computer data are heavily reliant on English, with 80% of global data in the language.
• 😀 English dominates satellite TV programming and is the language of a significant portion of the world’s media content.
• 😀 English continues to be a global language despite being alien to certain regions like parts of the British Isles, where Gaelic is still spoken.
• 😀 Varieties of English have developed based on cultural and regional differences, showing the adaptability and evolution of the language over time.

Q & A

Why is English considered a universal language in global communication?

English is the universal language of air traffic control and is spoken in 157 countries, making it a key medium for international communication in aviation, business, and media.

What role does English play in international media?

English dominates global media, with over half of the world's movies, TV programs, and pop music being produced in either British or American English. It's also the language of the majority of global newspapers and publications.

How has English become a dominant language in global business?

English is the language of global commerce, with important commodities like silver, tin, and platinum being traded in English. Furthermore, 80% of the world’s computer data is in English.

How does English influence the air travel industry?

English is the common language used for air traffic control and is required for communication in international flights, ensuring coordination between pilots and ground control across countries.

What is the significance of English in technology and the internet?

English plays a pivotal role in technology, with 80% of the world’s computer data in English, and it is the primary language used in global digital communication, from websites to software development.

What does the script say about the spread of English outside of Britain and the United States?

English is spoken by millions globally, transcending borders, and is particularly prevalent in non-English-speaking countries through tourism, air travel, and entertainment.

How has the idea of 'proper' English evolved over time?

The concept of 'proper' English, often referred to as Queen’s English or BBC English, only emerged in the Victorian era. It was largely influenced by public schools that created a standard accent among the upper class.

What impact did public schools in England have on the spread of a certain English accent?

Public schools in England, like Eaton and Harrow, created a standardized form of English, promoting it as a symbol of status and authority. This accent became associated with intelligence and trustworthiness.

How has English influenced other languages and cultures?

English has infiltrated many languages, with words and expressions like 'rock music,' 'sex appeal,' and 'superpower politics' making their way into non-English languages, reflecting its cultural impact.

How does the script contrast the spread of English in modern times to its origins?

While English originated in Britain, its spread has been facilitated by air travel, media, and global commerce, making it a truly international language used by diverse people across the globe, far beyond its origins.