Contemporary 2 third edition Unit 2: Global English

Summary

The video discusses English as a global language, highlighting two contrasting perspectives. The first argues that English is becoming a dominant language, replacing others in areas like business, science, and international travel, with over 75 countries using it officially. The second perspective counters that while English is widespread, it does not replace native languages, as many people only use English in specific contexts. The video explores the implications of English's spread and questions whether it should have a universal standard or embrace regional varieties, emphasizing the importance of cultural identity in a globalized world.

Takeaways

• 😀 English is referred to as a 'global language' or 'lingua franca,' used worldwide for communication.
• 😀 The use of English globally is unprecedented, as no other language has been spoken by so many people in history.
• 😀 One perspective is that English will eventually replace other languages and become the only language spoken.
• 😀 Another perspective argues that English will not replace other languages, as people retain their native languages.
• 😀 English dominates business, science, and international travel, making it the common language in these fields.
• 😀 English is the official language of 75 countries, though not everyone in these countries speaks it fluently.
• 😀 Proficiency in English gives people an advantage in global communication, especially in business and science.
• 😀 English is widely used in specific domains like government, business, and the Internet, but it does not replace local languages.
• 😀 A large number of people speak English as a second or third language, but it is not their primary language in daily life.
• 😀 Many people use English only for specific tasks or professional situations, not in personal or daily contexts.
• 😀 As globalization continues, people are likely to hold on to their native languages and cultures, even as English spreads.

Q & A

What does the term 'global language' refer to in the context of the video?

The term 'global language' refers to the use of English worldwide for global communication, acting as a common language or 'lingua franca' for people from different linguistic backgrounds.

What is the first viewpoint regarding English as a global language?

The first viewpoint argues that English is replacing other languages worldwide and will eventually become the only language people speak, particularly in domains like business, science, and international travel.

What is the second viewpoint about the future of English as a global language?

The second viewpoint suggests that English will not replace other languages, as it is often used only in specific domains (like work or school) and people will continue to speak their native languages in daily life.

How does the widespread use of English in international settings support the first viewpoint?

The widespread use of English in business, science, government, and international travel supports the first viewpoint by demonstrating that English is the common language in these global domains.

What are some examples of countries where English is an official language?

Examples of countries where English is an official language include England, India, and many others in the European Union and beyond, where it is used in government, banking, and other official matters.

Why do some people believe English will not replace other languages?

Some people believe English will not replace other languages because it is used primarily in specific situations, such as work or travel, while people continue to speak their native languages in their personal and community life.

How does the situation in India illustrate the argument that English will not replace other languages?

In India, while English is an official language, less than half of the population speaks it regularly. People predominantly use languages like Hindi in their everyday life, showing that English is not replacing native languages.

What is the significance of David Crystal's viewpoint on English as a global language?

David Crystal, a linguist, argues that English will not replace other languages because language is deeply tied to culture, and as globalization spreads, people will want to preserve their native languages and cultures.

What does the use of English in the Internet suggest about its global status?

The widespread use of English on the Internet supports the view that English is a global language, as it is the primary language used for communication, websites, and online content worldwide.

What are the key considerations regarding an international standard of English?

The key considerations about an international standard of English include whether we need a single form of English for global communication and whether different varieties of English, such as Italian English or Japanese English, should be accepted.