SDSU How You Understand the Relationship Between Language and Power Discussion

Length: 3 pages (double spaced)

Points to Consider

In the discussion of Ngugi’s interviews, we have tried to examine closely the relationship

between language, power, and perception (how we see the world around us). As Ngugi

suggests, there is no context today, especially with globalization, that has not been shaped by

colonial history and politics. Most often, Ngugi argues, the colonial context is reflected in the

language, or languages, that we have been educated to think as “normal” even though they

may be “abnormal” to our world. Language, here, does not simply mean the one we read or

write in, but also refers to ways of being, ways of thinking, and ways of seeing. Especially as

more and more of the world begins to speak, read, and write in English (aided by the

internet, as Carr suggests), we must be careful not to “normalize” the ideas embedded in the

English/Western value system. If we do, both Ngugi and Carr argue, the world will become

a “flattened” place in which cultural and linguistic diversity will not only cease to exist but

may also become extinct.

Question for the Paper:

How you understand the relationship between language and power?

It is up to you to decide how you want to answer this question, but your paper must

combine ideas from Ngugi’s two interviews (you must directly quote from Ngugi in your

paper and use quotes properly). You must also integrate your own experience with English

and the other languages you can read, speak, write, or otherwise communicate in. Your main

objective is to argue for your position on this question, not to repeat and/or summarize

Ngugi. Argue your points with confidence, and take control of your ideas so that they are at

the center of your paper.

Format & Presentation

? 12 point font; double spaced; 3 pages (i.e. not less than 3)

? Insert page number & your last name on the right-hand corner of every page

? Leave adequate time for revision.

? Give the paper a unique, creative title.

? Indicate page numbers for every quotation that you use.

? Quotes should not be longer than one line and should be integrated into your

sentences. Longer sections should be paraphrased.

I will attach the article to read below.