Bibliography: BIB22663

web link	bahai-library.com/bibliography/BIB22663
reference type	Journal Article
title	Language and Universalization : A 'Linguistic Ecology' Reading of Bahá'í Writ
journal	Journal of Bahá'í Studies
author	Meyjes, Gregory Paul P.
authority control	Gregory Paul P. Meyjes
year	1999
date	Mar. 1999
issue	1
volume	9
abstract	Interpretation of Bahá'í writings regarding language, cultural diversity, and worldwide communication leads to the seemingly paradoxical position that the promotion of linguistic minority rights must coincide with promotion of an International Auxiliary Language (IAL). Opposing trends toward increased globalization and growing nationalism are noted and their concurrence explained. The notion of "cultural justice" is expounded and the unregulated global spread of English today critically assessed in its light. From the perspective of Bahá'í writ, IAL emerges as a language intended to facilitate worldwide communication without unduly impinging on humankind's native linguistic traditions. Thus, Bahá'í writings appear to suport a worldwide linguistice ecology better planned, more equitable, less prone to precipitous change, and more cognizant of the singular role of language in humanity's individual and collective identity.
language	English
keywords	LANGUAGE; JUSTICE; LANGUAGE, AUXILIARY
pages	51–63