LANGUAGE POLICY Meaning and
Definition
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Language policy refers to a set of rules, guidelines, or measures enacted by governments, institutions, or organizations to regulate and manage the use of language within a specific context, such as a nation, region, or institution. It encompasses various aspects, including language planning, language rights, language education, and language maintenance or revitalization efforts.
The primary objective of language policy is to address language-related issues and establish a framework to control and promote the use of specific languages. This can include determining the official language(s), protecting linguistic diversity, promoting bilingual or multilingual education, facilitating language acquisition for immigrant populations, or preserving endangered languages.
Language policy also often reflects the political, social, and cultural aspirations and ideologies of a particular community or nation. It can either aim to promote linguistic homogeneity by prioritizing one dominant language, or foster linguistic diversity by supporting multiple languages within a multicultural society. Furthermore, language policies frequently intersect with broader issues of identity and power dynamics, influencing language choices, social integration, and cultural preservation.
The development and implementation of language policy may involve various stakeholders, including government bodies, educational institutions, language communities, scholars, and activists. It requires extensive planning, research, and ongoing evaluation to ensure the effectiveness and inclusivity of language provisions. Moreover, language policies need to strike a balance between linguistic rights, cultural values, educational objectives, and societal cohesion to meet the needs and aspirations of diverse language communities.
Etymology of LANGUAGE POLICY
The word "language policy" is composed of two elements: "language" and "policy".
1. Language:
The word "language" has a Latin origin, derived from the Latin word "lingua" which means "tongue" or "speech". Over time, it developed into the Middle English word "langage" and eventually became "language" in modern English. The concept of language refers to a system of communication, consisting of spoken, written, or signed words and the rules governing their use and understanding.
2. Policy:
The word "policy" is of French origin, derived from the Old French word "policie" or "policiee", meaning "government" or "political organization". It underwent anglicization in the late Middle English period and acquired its current form "policy".
