Why I Learned English | Jack Ma

Summary

The speaker emphasizes the importance of language as a gateway to understanding and respecting different cultures, which is crucial for building relationships and conducting global business. Despite the availability of translation apps, learning a language is about embracing its culture. The speaker shares their personal journey of self-taught English and a deeper understanding of Western culture, highlighting that respect and appreciation for diversity facilitate friendship and business. They conclude by stressing the significance of vision and belief in changing the world, advocating for direct communication over reliance on translators, and encouraging individuals to focus on their strengths and passions.

Takeaways

• 📚 Language is crucial for personal and professional growth.
• 🏫 Despite not having a strong educational background, perseverance is key.
• 💼 Failing to find jobs or join prestigious institutions does not define success.
• 🌐 Language is not just about communication; it's about understanding and respecting culture.
• 🌍 Learning a language opens doors to appreciating and respecting different cultures, fostering mutual respect.
• 👥 Respect and appreciation for other cultures can lead to better relationships and collaboration.
• 📚 Self-taught language skills can lead to a deeper understanding of foreign cultures.
• 🤝 Making friends is easier when you respect and appreciate other cultures.
• 💼 Business success is not solely dependent on language proficiency but also on cultural understanding.
• 🌟 Global deals can be made without language proficiency, but vision and belief are essential.
• 🔍 While translators can be useful, understanding and communicating in a language is more effective.

Q & A

Why does the speaker emphasize the importance of language?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of language because it is a gateway to understanding and appreciating different cultures, which in turn fosters respect and the ability to work together globally.

What does the speaker suggest is a common misconception about the role of language in the future with artificial intelligence?

The speaker suggests that a common misconception is that the need to learn languages will diminish due to quick translation apps, but they argue that language learning is about understanding culture, not just communication.

How did the speaker's background and education influence their perspective on language learning?

The speaker's background of being born in a normal family and not being good at school, along with attending a school that was not well-equipped, influenced their perspective by making them value self-study and the cultural understanding that comes with language learning.

What is the speaker's opinion on the relationship between language learning and making friends?

The speaker believes that learning and respecting another culture through language helps in making friends, which is essential for business and global collaboration.

Why does the speaker believe that learning English by themselves gave them a better understanding of Western culture compared to those who studied abroad?

The speaker believes that their self-study approach allowed them to focus on understanding the culture rather than just the language, leading to a deeper appreciation and understanding of Western culture.

What is the speaker's view on the necessity of being able to speak English for conducting global business?

The speaker argues that speaking good English does not guarantee success in global business; rather, it is the vision, belief, and respect for different cultures that truly matter.

How did the historical example of Mao Zedong and Nixon illustrate the speaker's point about the importance of vision and belief over language proficiency?

The example of Mao Zedong and Nixon, who did not speak each other's languages, shows that having a shared vision and belief can lead to significant global deals and collaboration, regardless of language barriers.

What advice does the speaker give regarding the use of translators in business?

The speaker advises that while translators are sometimes necessary, being able to understand and communicate in a language is easier and more effective for both parties.

What is the speaker's suggestion for personal development in terms of career and interests?

The speaker suggests focusing on the things one is good at and loves, implying that passion and skill are more important than just language proficiency.

How does the speaker define success in the context of language learning and cultural understanding?

The speaker defines success as the ability to appreciate and respect different cultures, which leads to being respected and appreciated by others, making collaboration and business easier.

What is the main takeaway from the speaker's perspective on language and culture?

The main takeaway is that language learning is crucial not just for communication, but for gaining a deep understanding and respect for different cultures, which is essential for global cooperation and personal growth.