Question

Why do anthropologists see "language loss" as an important problem? Do you agree? What can be done about it?

Answer 1

Language loss is referred to one losing one’s own mother tongue due to the influence of other languages. Language is the expression of a culture, thus all the stories, myths and history of a particular society is passed own to the next generation with the help of the language. When one starts learning another language and neglects one’s own language, one is moving away from one’s own culture and society thus alienating oneself from one’s own self. Some cultures were forced to learn the language of those who defeated them such as the Native Americans and African Americans who were forced through assimilation and forced to lose their language thus, their culture. It’s alright for someone to learn as many languages as possible but the fact is that one shouldn’t forget to learn one’s own language. One should always feel happy to attach oneself to one’s language and culture. Being different doesn’t mean that one is wrong or inferior but it only means that people are unique. Finally, schools should facilitate both the language of the majority as well as foster any other languages the students speak. Learning things bilingually would help them understand things better.

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