Brain Storm
The strongest words echo in the mind, not in the mouths of
those who simply beckon it into existence. A word is
sacred. All of them are alive. There is a growing problem
with determining the direction we take with language. Is
it time to universalize all languages? Should we create a
new international language? Which one could possibly be
the best? Why? What is the true nature of language? Have
we created it, or are we still one link away from reality
in our use of language? Many questions have been
unanswered, and still others arise as we enter the age of
the technological catalyst in communication with
nanocomputers and studies in artificial life. It seems we
are making progress, and we expect it to, but will it
really keep going at this pace? Are there no limits to our
human capacity or should we press onward for the finale?
Who or what is to ultimately decide where humanity's
future is destined? Have we come to any reasonable
accumulation of information or justification for any major
world religion? Have we expressed any certainty on the
ideas of relativism, perspective or consciousness, despite
an extensive record of experiential data? What derives the
element of Power, Freedom, Justice or Truth? Will we ever
know? Should we continue our struggle or accept what is
given?
If I had an answer to even one of these questions, it
would have to fill volumes! They are all intertwined and
are the result of information's compact intensity due to
technology. This is the time, as never before. Today is
our blessing, tomorrow uncertain. To find success, seek
nature and believe. Be aware and connect, above space and
time, beyond numbers: the only thing holding words back
from flooding every blank surface with joy!
2 Comments:
You ask a lot of questions here. I'll pick up on one. You wrote " Is it time to universalize all languages? Should we create a new international language?" I would argue that we already have Esperanto.
I would like to argue the case for Esperanto as the international auxiliary language. It is a planned language which belongs to no one country or group of states.
Esperanto works! I've used it in speech and writing in about fifteen countries over recent years.
Indeed, the language has some remarkable practical benefits. Personally, I've made friends around the world through Esperanto that I would never have been able to communicate with otherwise. And then there's the Pasporta Servo, which provides free lodging and local information to Esperanto-speaking travellers in over 90 countries. Over recent years I have had guided tours of Berlin, Douala and Milan in the planned language. I have discussed philosophy with a Slovene poet, humour on television with a Bulgarian TV producer. I've discussed what life was like in East Berlin before the wall came down, how to cook perfect spaghetti, the advantages and disadvantages of monarchy, and so on. I recommend it, not just as an ideal but as a very practical way to overcome language barriers.
October 2, 2010 at 2:22 AM
I would just love it if native English-speakers would use their own language well!
K. Smith
Eng. 226
October 3, 2010 at 11:23 AM
Post a Comment
Subscribe to Post Comments [Atom]
<< Home