The Rise of English

Autori

• Rosemary C Salomone

Parametri

• Linguistica
• Saggistica
• Tema stórico

Maggiori informazioni sul libro

Is English a bridge or a barrier to economic advancement and social mobility as it spreads worldwide? This book explores the influence of domestic and global politics on these outcomes, identifying winners, losers, and resisters. It examines how countries like France and China leverage the 'soft power' of language to challenge English, and the roles of globalization, a knowledge-based economy, and neoliberalism in these dynamics. Through the lens of education, the narrative unfolds across four continents, starting in Europe with the European Union's promotion of multilingualism and debates surrounding English-taught university programs. It then transitions to the post-colonial world, where conflicts over English in education highlight historical grievances and inequities stemming from politically motivated language policies, alongside French's decline in former colonies. Finally, the focus shifts to the United States, where local officials and grassroots movements are tackling the 'foreign language deficit' and advocating for multilingualism. Drawing on a wealth of interdisciplinary research, interviews, and cultural commentary, the book argues for a common global language—currently English—as an essential element of multilingualism in an increasingly interconnected and diverse world.

Lingua: Inglese

Pubblicato: 2022

(Copertina rigida)