English language education: cultural domination versus intercultural understanding

Abstract

There is convincing evidence that learning a foreign language can have potentially adverse effects on the cultures and languages of the learner (Modiano, 2001). However, with globalization, motivation to master the English language is greater today than it ever was. English continues to establish and re- establish itself as an international language all over the world. In Malaysia for example, a language

that was once frequently referred to as the language of the colonial masters, has now come back stronger than ever. The nation's education policy clearly reflects the role of English as a catalyst for development. The question now is whether English should be seen as a threat to the nation's multicultural identity? This paper will argue that although there is merit in claims that English has been behind the death of other languages and even cultures, today, it is most likely the best agent we have for the promotion of intercultural understanding. This paper will first discuss the link between language and culture. English language instructors are at the forefront of the issue that this paper addresses. Therefore, this paper will also focus of the role of the English language instructor in using English as a tool to promote intercultural communication in our borderless world.