Language influences
- What is meant by the phrase “Language influences our view of reality”?
- What images come to mind when you hear someone speaking English with an accent? Do different accents create different images? Try to decide why you form those images? Talk with others to see if they have the same experience.
- Some countries have an official language (or languages), but others do not. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a country having an official language? Should the United States have an official language? Why?
- Some scholars think the world is moving toward an “oligarchy” of major economic power languages. Do you think this would be a good or a bad occurrence? Why? What will happen to minority languages, and what will be the result?
- Do you believe technology helps or hinders intercultural communication?
- What techniques can you employ that will assist you when you are in a situation that is employing an interpreter?
