Use At Your Own Risk

            In modern times, there is no doubting that the English language has become more and more popular, and established itself as the world’s most widely used language, otherwise known as ‘lingua franca’.  Understandably this is most frequent with nations and cultures that have established themselves as the most influential for their respected time.  As is the case with most things, there are both positive and negative side-effects that accompany the concept of ‘lingua franca’.  It is my opinion that when placed on the grand scale, the negative side of things might outweigh the bad.

            In the presence of a dominant global language, one can easily observe enhanced communication as one of its greatest benefits.  Fundamentally, when in the presence of a non-native lingua franca, non-speakers find themselves with more of an urge to learn and be able to utilize the given language.  With more people speaking the same language, literally, the barriers that once burdened the people of the world are much less of a problem.  Everything from business to everyday communication has the ability to thrive on a global scale, and for this the world is a better place.

            However, the broadening of a dominant language can also bring its fair share of drawbacks.  To begin with, if everyone across the world has interest in one culture and language, then there will be no room for other cultures to gain interest and attention.  While everyone in Japan might be eating up American culture and the English language that also means that the Japanese people are going to be focusing less on other cultures.  Additionally, people might find themselves even displacing their own cultural with that of the lingua franca. 

            In regard to culture, what makes it so different and unique is what makes it significant.  If everyone had the same culture, the world would be a much less appealing place.  Although it is an exaggeration, it is a possibility in concern to lingua franca and its growing power.  When everything and everyone begins to look and act the same, the world turns into such a bland and barren place.  There is no discovery, no mystery; this takes all the fun out of life if you ask me.  

            With the American culture becoming more and more popular as in modern time, one must take a look at the possibilities which could take place.  Although it is nice for people to be able to communicate more frequently than before, at what cost does this commodity take place?  With one dominant culture pouring out across the globe, do other cultures find themselves too absorbed, neglecting the other cultures of the world?  I believe that there comes a piece of personal responsibility, on behalf of the lingua franca, and those buying into it.