Commentaires sur : Global English: A European Perspective

Par : Henry VIIIth

Henry VIIIth — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 21:15:45 +0000

Try elfic languages from Tolkien’s works. They’re marvellous, although English « way-of-mind » can be seen as a watermark under some expressions and grammar (I am not an expert, though).

Par : Thierry Kakouridis

Thierry Kakouridis — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 09:42:28 +0000

It goes without saying that cultural integration as you call it depends on one’s approach to (any) language. I happen to teach a language that too many consider universal, which it is by no means! Some even dare to suggest that my colleagues and I teach globish. This is downright stupid! I trust that you’ll take great interest in Claude Hagège’s enlightening books. In a future life, I’ll teach Tagalog or some other exotic language.

Par : Henry VIIIth

Henry VIIIth — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 22:39:13 +0000

Quote:
> Without denying the importance of English, two other categories of languages
> should be supported by the educational systems and the legislators to create
> a more balanced and equitable situation for all. The first one is languages
> spoken in neighboring countries, natural partners for trade and recreation:
> these languages will obviously be more useful for personal and professional
> life than English. The second one is the other federating languages, French,
> German, Russian and Spanish, mentioned earlier.
Although I agree with most of your points, I should add the following category of languages: languages of use for cultural integration. For instance, Arabic should be available, as well as Chinese. While this may seem an intrusion, I see it mostly as a two-way opportunity for better integration. I have seen the impact of French education systems located out of France, for instance in Turkey and Romania, and I think it could be very profitable under all perspectives to establish cultural and linguistic relations not only with neighbouring countries but also with countries from which we receive people.