While reading the article by Michael Burawoy, I found myself
realizing that language really is a factor in society. I have to agree with him
when he says, that language is a problematic and promising field. We see it
every day in society. It causes problems but it also is a great thing. While reading this article I found myself
having opinions of my own. I was able to realize that English really is the
dominate language. From going on passed vacations I look back at the effort
that the locals have given to people who speak English. They try very hard to
make us feel comfortable in their culture. As in America we look at it as being
a bad thing if they don’t know English. We think that if everyone spoke English
the world would be a better place and we would solve all the problems. But in
reality it would take away from people’s individuality and culture. As Americans
who speak English we almost believe that we have the ethnocentrism over other countries.
I believe Americans can be a little close minded when it come to being bilingual
and we just want everything to be our way.
I posted a video explaining how it is difficult for children
to learn when they do not speak the correct language as the school. This high
school would teach the children in English and in their home language until
grade six. After that they would be taught in English. By having them learn in
both languages the children are able to come home with to their parents and get
help because they will be able to understand it because it is not only in English.
In South Africa it seems that the children are growing up in a diverse and multicultural
world. Like Burawoy says this can be a problem but it also can be a wonderful
thing!
I agree that language is a huge factor. I found that language is probably the number one thing that you have to have if you are going to deal with and study sociology globally. I also think that the video is a great way to explain the concept and it was interesting. Great first blog.
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