World Englishes and Culture Wars

This book challenges the notions of native versus non-native Englishes and English versus New Englishes, highlighting the shared features and differences of World Englishes. It criticizes power asymmetries between the Inner, Outer, and Expanding Circles of English and explores how the Outer Circle has enriched the language for both heritage and non-heritage users. The comparison with Latin highlights the potential for English to split into Anglian languages.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2019
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

This book, written from a non-Western perspective, delves into the inadequacy of oppositions such as native versus non-native Englishes and English versus New Englishes. It elucidates why the term "World Englishes" encompasses both the shared features and distinct differences among these varieties of English. Furthermore, it critiques the power imbalances that have emerged between the Inner, Outer, and Expanding Circles of English, highlighting the extent to which the Outer Circle has enriched the common language and made it accessible to both heritage and non-heritage users. The narrative is firmly rooted in a wealth of historical knowledge, particularly concerning the colonization of the Outer Circle. Readers are encouraged to compare the spread and differentiation of English with those of Latin, which gave rise to the Romance languages. This comparison may prompt the reader to ponder the possibility of English breaking up into Anglian languages.

Weight: 468g
Dimension: 154 x 228 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780521532785