Why did the UK and US hold the view that bilingualism had more disadvantages than advantages?
The UK and US, particularly during certain periods of history, held the view that bilingualism had more disadvantages than advantages for several reasons:
1. National unity: Both countries prioritized national unity and believed that a common language was crucial for a cohesive society. They argued that promoting bilingualism could potentially divide the population along linguistic lines, leading to societal fragmentation.
2. Assimilation: Historically, both countries had policies aimed at assimilating immigrants into the dominant national culture. Advocates of monolingualism believed that promoting and prioritizing English (in the case of the US) or English, Welsh, and Scottish Gaelic (in the case of the UK) would help facilitate assimilation and integration.
3. Education: Language development and education were also key concerns. Critics of bilingualism worried that it could lead to delays in language acquisition, hinder academic progress, and impede cognitive development, particularly among children from immigrant backgrounds.
4. Economic implications: Some policymakers argued that prioritizing English proficiency would help immigrants and minority groups assimilate more easily into the workforce, enhancing their economic prospects and contributing to societal advancement.
5. Linguistic imperialism: During certain periods, both the UK and US held strong positions as global powers. The promotion of English as a dominant language was seen as an extension of their cultural influence and dominance in various aspects, such as trade, diplomacy, and media. Encouraging bilingualism was seen as a threat to this dominance.
It is important to note that these views have evolved over time, and both countries now recognize the benefits of bilingualism and multilingualism, promoting language diversity and inclusivity in their educational and social policies.