A Critique of Phillipson’s Theory of Linguistic Imperialism

Abstract

This study examines the imperial status of English via a critique of Phillipson’s Theory of Linguistic Imperialism. The communicative potency of the English language on the international stage resonates with its label as an ‘imperial language’. English is used in discrete communication situations in different regions of the world. Some of the functions of the language in such regions are assigned to it through legislation, because of the expanse of the referential/representational function of the language. For example, in former British colonies, the English language adequately fills up the vocabulary inadequacies of indigenous languages. This is crucial in contemporary times given the fact that individuals and nations try to cope with the communication constraints of globalization. In this regard, multiculturalism and intercultural communication tendencies are promoted, encouraged and demonstrated. This study is anchored by two theoretical frameworks: Afolayan (1995:1988); and the Wider and Narrower Perspectives of World Englishes. The study concludes that from different viewpoints, English is an imperial language: English nations dominate in different domains of world affairs, English is lingua franca in some countries, English is a language of wider communication; and English is used for documentation and publications across disciplines.