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English as a global languageA hundred years ago, a global language was unheard of. However as America became a leader of industrialization and countries began to open their borders to the international economy, English became the leader of languages. Throughout the years, English has become the dominant language in various areas including the internet, medicine, business, and media. It is also apparent that Non-English countries are becoming more and more determined to become English speakers. But is this necessarily a good thing? Although English has been accepted as the dominant global language, are there disadvantages to a global language? While some view a global language as negative, I would argue that the advantages outway the disadvantages. A global language is defined as ?a language that is learned and spoken internationally, and is characterized not only by the number of its native and second language speakers, but also by its geographical distribution, and its use in international organizations and in diplomatic relations?. Many of the advantages of a global language are self-explanartory and visible. For example, English speakers have an advantage in attaining better career opportunities. People can cross national borders more easily, whether for work or leisure. English as a global language is also good for the international economy as there is less need to incorporate minority languages, therefore saving costs. Given these advantages, learning English has become very popular. However are there disadvantages of a global language? The most apparent disadvantage is the fact that many languages are disappearing. Many fear that minority languages are disppearing at an increasing rate and some say that this is due to the spread of English as a dominant language. Many fear that by using English, other languages will become less and less important and will eventually disappear. Given that language is a focal point of culture, we could presume that if a language is lost, a culture is lost. However, some argue that rather than losing their culture, minority groups will be more determined to keep their native languages alive for the exact same reason. In other words, while some believe this to be a disadvantage, others see it as an advantage. Another disadavantage mentioned is the fact that native english speakers are at an advantage to non-native speakers when it comes to business and work. Some argure that non-native speakers will never have the same opportunities that native speakers have. This could have an effect in the long run if it is believed that non-native english speakers will always be one step behind native english speakers. While I would admit that this may be true for jobs in the ESL teaching field, I am uncertain if it is true for other sectors. It seems that many other nations are stepping up and taking over in some sectors. For instance, India has flourished in various fields through the use of English. It is also argued that some people in India feel that English is a language that they can express in their own creative way. In conclusion, it is quite apparent that English has taken the lead as the number one international business language. While disadvantages of a global language are discussed, it does not change the fact that English continues to be the global language and most nations accept this. Not only do they accept it, but they are also committed to learning and integrating this global language into their nation. English has become so dominant that many nations feel that to be educated is to speak in English. And although the disadvantages are apparent and should not be dismissed, it is highly unlikely that they will hinder the progress of English as a global language in the coming years. Hence, rather than focusing on its negativities, we should be embracing the idea of having a global language that all nations can share. References Nadkarnie, Mangesh V., English as a Global Language http://www.hmpenglishonline.com/nadkarni2.pdf Smolander, Anna-Maria, English as a Global Language, a Good or Bad Thing http://www.helium.com/items/146578englishasagloballanguageagoodorbadthing Unknown Author, The History of English http://www.thehistoryofenglish.com/issues_global.html
