Author(s) :

Alemayehu Jote Tullu.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Ecological and social resources which are accumulated in and transmitted through indigenous languages and cultures are important pillar in the national development scenario if they are properly mobilized. This presupposes the complementary nature of correlation between national development and linguistic diversity. However, this correlation has not caught adequate attention to the level that it deserves. Besides, linguistic heterogeneity is perceived to impede economic advancement and political stability. The concern of this position paper is, therefore, to critically discuss if linguistic and cultural diversity contributes to, or rather hold back national welfare, and take position. To organize this paper, data were gathered from relevant secondary sources which argue both in favour of and against the role of linguistic and cultural pluralism for the welfare of a nation, critically reviewed, and systematically discussed and argued based on the evidences and justifications provided. The relevance and authenticity of the sources in relation to the issue under consideration was carefully examined. From the discussion, it was concluded that language is a historical heritage and is an intimate means of expressing one’s deepest thoughts and personality, and signifies identity and inalienable human rights. It is also the means of accessing knowledge, ideas and beliefs of the past that are bases for societal development of today. Furthermore, multilingualism by itself is not the cause for economic and political instability in a society; rather, these problems attribute to other social factors and political power inequalities between different groups. Therefore, so as not to disregard these resources and exclude large number of population from the national development agenda, linguistic diversity needs to be preserved and promoted.

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