Words of the World

This book offers a comprehensive exploration of global languages and communication dynamics. Words of the World is essential for understanding linguistic diversity today.

This insightful study of human languages and communication delves into the complexities of linguistic diversity in today's interconnected world. With over five thousand distinct language groups, many of which struggle to communicate with one another, the book examines how these groups form a cohesive global language system. The connections among multilingual speakers create a powerful network that influences the survival and vitality of various languages. In this context, Words of the World highlights the role of a dominant global language—English—in facilitating communication across borders and cultures.

The book illustrates that language functions as a 'hypercollective' good, where the value of a language increases as more people adopt it. This phenomenon leads to a compelling dynamic: as a language gains speakers, it becomes increasingly desirable for others to learn. Consequently, in our era of globalization, only a handful of languages emerge as primary tools for transnational communication, often overshadowing local languages even within their own national contexts. Words of the World provides a thorough analysis of this intricate relationship between language, culture, and society.

Additionally, the author explores specific case studies, including India, Indonesia, Sub-Saharan Africa, South Africa, and the European Union, offering a nuanced perspective on language policy in multilingual settings. The book serves as an essential resource for students and scholars in sociology, communication studies, and linguistics, shedding light on the pressing issues surrounding language in a globalized age.