Discuss what does Drummond 1980 say , about arrow drawing of languages Write three pages
In his seminal work "Language in Society: An Introduction to Sociolinguistics", William Drummond (1980) in Chapter 3 titled "The Arrow of Languages" discusses the interconnectedness of languages and the various factors that influence the directionality and spread of language. Drummond uses the metaphor of an arrow to explain how languages can be influenced by factors such as history, politics, economy, and culture. The arrow represents the movement and directionality of languages, with some languages being more dominant and influential than others.
Drummond argues that the spread and dominance of a language are often a result of historical factors such as colonization, trade, and migration. For example, the spread of English as a global language can be attributed to the colonization of English-speaking countries by the British Empire, as well as the economic and political influence of the United States in the 20th century. Similarly, the spread of Spanish and Portuguese in Latin America can be traced back to the colonization of the region by Spanish and Portuguese explorers.
Furthermore, Drummond discusses how the political landscape of a country can influence the dominance of a particular language. For example, in countries where there is a strong nationalist sentiment, the promotion and preservation of the national language may be prioritized over other languages spoken in the region. This can lead to the marginalization and decline of minority languages within the country.
Drummond also highlights the role of economic factors in shaping the directionality of languages. The dominance of English as a global language can be attributed to the economic power of English-speaking countries, as well as the economic opportunities available to those who speak English fluently. In today's globalized world, proficiency in English is often seen as a valuable skill that can open up opportunities for employment and education.
Furthermore, Drummond discusses how cultural factors can influence the spread and dominance of a language. For example, the popularity of American movies, music, and literature has contributed to the global spread of English, as people are exposed to the language through various forms of popular culture.
In conclusion, Drummond's "Arrow of Languages" metaphor serves as a useful framework for understanding the complex dynamics that shape the spread and dominance of languages. By taking into account historical, political, economic, and cultural factors, Drummond provides a comprehensive analysis of how languages evolve and interact with each other in a globalized world.