English is championed as an essential tool for participation yet is criticized for causing real social harm.

English: Language of controversy - for iPod/iPhone

Why has the rise of English caused so much controversy?

Is English a force for good? What have been the ramifications of this language’s dominance in ex colonies and also throughout the world? We debate how local languages have suffered as a result of the spread of English and investigate the consequences of its influence on indigenous communities. Language campaigner Neville Alexander provides a South African perspective on the negative aspects of a language when it begins to represent economic and political power and a panel of linguists debate some of the controversies caused by English and whether they believe it still has a future. This material forms part of The Open University course U214 Worlds of English.

About

English: Language of controversy - for iPod/iPhone