The spread of English is the result of a number of historical and pragmatic factors:
1- Historical factors: English was the language of the British Empire, and later that of American expansion. English used as primary language needed for government in the British Empire. Plus it's the language of communication, commerce and education in those part pf the world under the British colonial administration.
2- Globalization: English is the primary language for communication within the organization. globalization has contributed as much as to the idea to the English as it has the actual role in communication. In other words, English represents an image in popular imagination established through media, advertising rather than a political necessity or reality for many people.
3- Economic development: English is important to economic development of the country. Countries with poor English language skills have lower levels of trade, innovations and income, example Colombia, Panama...etc
4- Communication: Since English is widely taught and used around the world, it is a convenient language for communication across national boundaries and in a wide range of professions.
5- Business and Entrepreneurship: As we know the USA emerged as global economic power after WW2, International trade and commerce become increasingly dependent on the usage of English.
Other factors such as: Education, Travel, Popular Culture, The media, A global English language teaching industry, and Symbolism are also main and important factors.
The English language is widely spread because of its geographical distribution and its use in international organizations and in diplomatic relations.It is a global language that acts as a "lingua franca" since it enables people from diverse backgrounds and ethnicities to communicate on a more or less equitable basis.Still, there is no official definition of a "global"or "world" language and it is often argued that the "global village" needs a "global language"and that is particularly in the world of modern communication,globalized trade and easy international travel.
ReplyDelete