1st Edition

English-Only Europe? Challenging Language Policy

By Robert Phillipson Copyright 2003
    252 Pages
    by Routledge

    252 Pages
    by Routledge

    English-Only Europe? explores the role of languages in the process of European integration.
    Languages are central to the development of an integrated Europe. The way in which the European Union deals with multilingualism has serious implications for both individual member countries and international relations.
    In this book, Robert Phillipson considers whether the contemporary expansion of English represents a serious threat to other European languages. After exploring the implications of current policies, Phillipson argues the case for more active language policies to safeguard a multilingual Europe. Drawing on examples of countries with explicit language policies such as Canada and South Africa, the book sets out Phillipson's vision of an inclusive language policy for Europe, and describes how it can be attained.

    1 The risks of laissez faire language policies 2 European languages: families, nations, empires, states 3 Global trends impacting on European language policy 4 Languages in EU institutions 5 Towards equitable communication 6 Recommendations for action on language policies

    Biography

    Robert Phillipson is Research Professor in the Department of English, Copenhagen Business School, Denmark. His publications include Rights to Language, Equity, Power and Education (2000), Linguistic Human Rights: Overcoming Linguistic Discrimination (1994) and Linguistic Imperialism (1992).

    'Phillipson's book is a vital text for all those who believe in the blessings of Babel.' - The European English Messenger