Linguistic imperialism, cultural integrity, and EIL

Those who view the spread of English as linguistic imperialism question the English language teaching and learning enterprise because, from their point of view, it compromises the cultural integrity of the non-native speaker. In this paper I argue that while linguistic imperialism is certainly real,...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:ELT journal 2001-10, Vol.55 (4), p.339-347
Main Author: Modiano, Marko
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Academic Standards
Assertiveness
Colonialism
Cultural Differences
Cultural Pluralism
English
English (Second Language)
English Instruction
Foreign Countries
Foreign Policy
Ideology
Instructional Materials
Integrity
Language Role
Linguistics
Native Speakers
Second Language Instruction
Second Language Learning
Teaching Methods
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Summary:Those who view the spread of English as linguistic imperialism question the English language teaching and learning enterprise because, from their point of view, it compromises the cultural integrity of the non-native speaker. In this paper I argue that while linguistic imperialism is certainly real, and demands to be addressed, one possible way for the language instructor to come to terms with the cultural imposition of English language learning is to utilize ELT practices which position and define English as an international language (EIL). In my view, the alternative, promoting so-called 'prestige' varieties, positions the practitioner as a purveyor of Anglo-American hegemony, and perpetuates the negative impact which foreign language learning can have on the cultural integrity of the learner.
ISSN:0951-0893
1477-4526
DOI:10.1093/elt/55.4.339