Should We Let Rare Languages Die In This Age Of Globalizatio

Li 1should We Let Rare Languages Diein This Age Of Globalization Eng

Li 1 Should We Let Rare Languages Die? In this age of globalization, English has become the most popular language in the world. Many kinds of languages are disappearing. But should we just let them die? Kenan Malik, a professor, lecturer, and broadcaster at the University of Sussex, argues that dying languages shouldn’t be preserved and should be allowed to die peacefully. He writes an essay titled "Let Them Die" to support his view, but his arguments lack persuasive power due to weak evidence and an extreme tone. His essay presents several weaknesses that undermine its credibility.

One significant issue with Malik’s argument is his presentation of evidence. For instance, he claims that “the human capacity for language certainly shapes our ways of thinking,” and states that “most linguists have long since given up on the idea that people's perceptions of the world, and the kinds of concepts they hold, are constrained by the particular language they speak” (Malik). However, Malik does not cite any academic sources or provide empirical evidence to substantiate this claim. Without supporting data or expert consensus, this argument appears unsubstantiated and weak. Furthermore, Malik does not interpret or analyze this statement, merely presenting it without explanation, which weakens his overall argument.

Additionally, Malik asserts that “the human capacity for language certainly shapes our ways of thinking. But particular languages almost certainly do not.” This statement is confusing and lacks logic. Without explanation, readers cannot understand why Malik believes individual languages do not influence cognition, which diminishes the strength of his argument. Effective reasoning requires clarifying how language impacts perception, yet Malik's failure to do so leaves his claim unsupported and difficult to accept.

Malik also discusses political oppression and cultural identity loss, citing Turkish Kurds who are banned from using their language under Turkish policies. He suggests that some groups abandon their languages seeking a better life, implying language death is a choice made for pragmatic reasons. He states, “Turkish Kurds are just a very small group in the world; it cannot be representative of most rare language speakers” (Malik). While this demographic detail is accurate, it is an inadequate basis to generalize about why languages die. The small size of Turkish Kurdish populations does not demonstrate that most languages are abandoned voluntarily or for pragmatic reasons. Malik needs more robust evidence, such as data showing language abandonment in larger populations or in different cultural contexts, to convincingly support his argument.

Moreover, Malik employs hyperbolic and subjective language that detracts from his objectivity. For example, he claims, “The idea that French speakers view the world differently from English speakers, because they speak French, is clearly absurd,” and emphasizes that “it is even more absurd to imagine that all French speakers have a common view of the world, thanks to a common language” (par. 8). The phrase “is clearly absurd” is a highly subjective and emotionally charged expression, which introduces bias and undermines the neutrality expected of scholarly writing. Such extreme language diminishes the credibility of his argument because it appears to be more opinionated than evidence-based.

Throughout his essay, Malik continues to use provocative language to dismiss opposing views, such as emphasizing “even more absurd” in his assertions. While tone is a crucial rhetorical device that can strengthen an argument when used appropriately, Malik’s excessive reliance on extreme and emotive language leads to a perception of bias. This approach alienates readers seeking a balanced, objective perspective, ultimately weakening his position. Effective academic writing requires maintaining a neutral tone to persuade through reason rather than emotional appeals, yet Malik’s tone often deteriorates into subjective hyperbole.

In conclusion, Malik’s essay attempts to argue that languages should be allowed to die without interference, yet his weak evidence and extreme tone compromise his credibility. His lack of empirical data, overgeneralization from small demographic examples, and emotionally charged language make his arguments unconvincing. For a more compelling case, Malik would need to present stronger, scholarly-supported evidence and adopt a more neutral, objective tone. As linguistic diversity faces threats worldwide, the debate about whether to preserve endangered languages remains complex, requiring nuanced and evidence-based discussions rather than simplistic, emotionally driven assertions.

References

• Malik, Kenan. “Let Them Die.” Prospect, Prospect Publishing, 20 Nov. 2000, www.prospectmagazine.co.uk.
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