Wednesday, May 1, 2013
The ecology of languages: In defense of plurality
French studies professor hopes minority languages and cultures remain relevant amidst the globalizing trend toward monoculture
In today’s world, the goal is “one.” One language, one culture, one way of thinking. French Studies professor François Paré comes to the defense of plurality. With the globalizing trend toward monoculture, where minority languages are threatened with extinction, he proposes a worldwide ecology of cultures and languages. Through his scholarship and public consultation, Paré hopes a diversity of languages will remain relevant in a multicultural and multilingual society.