Akadēmiskais centrsGerman Language: to Be or Not to Be?
The author writes about the disappearance of German language’s influence in the world. In the 20th century German language gradually lost its role as the language of science; now at the beginning of 21st century it is being used less and less at international scientific conferences and seminars. German speaking authors now present their scientific papers in English. Statistics show that German is the most widely spoken tongue in Europe and was once the most frequently taught foreign language in Europe. Now English and French have taken over. In EU German is recognized as one of the working languages, yet it is not used as such. Young Germans admire everything about America, like to speak English and express sarcasm about German folklore, history and culture. Borrowed English words have become part of German spoken everyday and are used even in press, on TV and on radio. There are a number of institutions and associations that pursue language purity but there is no law for protection German language. Contempt for German language in Germany has led to the point where fewer and fewer foreigners are learning it. Only among business students and students in fields related to tourism is German still a desirable language to learn.