Reviews for Linguistic Imperialism

The average rating for Linguistic Imperialism based on 2 reviews is 4 stars.

Review # 1 was written on 2008-08-25 00:00:00 Justin Rumble This is an important book, even if it's now a bit outdated (and a little conspiracy theory-ish). Phillipson makes a convincing argument that English maintains linguistic hegemony in most of the world due to certain actions and policies carried out by British groups (like the British coucil and some gov't agencies). Powerful people (the 'centre') have an interest in English maintaining its position so as to continue a system of inequality over the less powerful (the 'periphery'). A few things that aren't mentioned: places in which English has not gained the same foothold it has in most parts of the world -- specifically South America -- and the possibility of a non-imperalist English. Worth reading, but don't let it get you down if you're an ESL teacher. You can still do some good...

Review # 2 was written on 2019-12-30 00:00:00 Elizabeth Strauch Candidate for best book I've ever read.