📖 Overview
Robert Phillipson's Linguistic Imperialism Continued examines how English language dominance persists in education, politics, and global communications. The book serves as a follow-up to his influential 1992 work Linguistic Imperialism.
Through analysis of policy documents and case studies, Phillipson investigates how English maintains its position of power through institutional structures and educational systems. He explores examples from various regions including Europe, India, and China to demonstrate the mechanisms of linguistic hierarchies.
The text incorporates extensive research on language rights, linguistic diversity, and the relationship between language and power in the modern world. Phillipson examines both historical contexts and contemporary developments in language policy.
This academic work contributes to critical discussions about language equality, cultural sovereignty, and the future of global communication. The book challenges assumptions about English as a neutral tool for international exchange.
👀 Reviews
Readers appreciate Phillipson's detailed analysis of how English language dominance impacts education and society worldwide. Multiple reviews note his thorough research and extensive citations. Several academics praise his examination of linguistic human rights and language policy.
Common criticisms include:
- Dense academic writing style that can be difficult to follow
- Some arguments feel repetitive from his previous work
- Limited practical solutions offered
One reviewer noted: "Makes important points but gets bogged down in theoretical frameworks rather than providing concrete examples."
Ratings:
Goodreads: 3.8/5 (17 ratings)
Amazon: 4/5 (3 ratings)
Multiple academic reviewers cite the book's value for language policy researchers and sociolinguistics students, while general readers found it less accessible. A linguistics professor wrote: "Essential reading for understanding language politics, though the prose could be more engaging."
No major book review publications appear to have formally reviewed this title.
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🤔 Interesting facts
🔹 Robert Phillipson coined the term "linguistic imperialism" in 1992, arguing that the dominance of English globally is a form of cultural and linguistic power that perpetuates inequality.
🔹 The book examines how English language teaching policies in Europe and worldwide often serve political and economic interests rather than purely educational ones.
🔹 Phillipson's work challenges the common belief that English is a neutral language of opportunity, showing how it can actually contribute to the marginalization of local languages and cultures.
🔹 The author spent many years teaching in Yugoslavia and became fluent in several languages, including Danish, which significantly influenced his perspective on language politics and power dynamics.
🔹 This 2009 book is a follow-up to Phillipson's groundbreaking 1992 work "Linguistic Imperialism," addressing how globalization has intensified many of the issues he identified nearly two decades earlier.