Linguistic Colonisation. On the spread of English and its consequences for individuals and societies

Abstract

This essay traces the spread of the English language across the world and its political and economic origins. Kachru’s model of the three consecutive circles is the backbone on which the assertions in this essay are based; that the spread of English was an important factor in colonisation and furthermore that colonisation has continued culturally via English. English has become so dominant that it can be considered to be a necessary skill like literacy or computer skills. Finally, the exposure and usage of Global English in non English speaking countries is examined and the effects of Global English, both positive and negative, on economies, cultures and education are explored from different perspectives.