An Examination of Hayakawa’s essay entitled “Bilingualism in America”

Type :

Presentation

Pages :

3 pages

Format :

.doc

Published date :

06/15/2008

Category :

Political science

Sub category :

Social sciences

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Summary :

The first problem with Hayakawa's argument stems from the assertions that he makes about the importance of English to the development of the country.
Although Hayakawa's observations are indeed correct, the reality of the United States is that this is the point.
Arguably, Hayakawa's arguments are one critical problem with the assessment of bilingual education that is presented.
The argument made by Hayakawa with respect to the goals and purposes of bilingual education also engenders another problem that needs to be addressed.
In the end, neither the definitions nor arguments made by Hayakawa provide a salient reason for abolishing bilingual education.

Abstract

hayakawa's essay entitled "bilingualism in america" provides a clearly articulated argument that attempts to demonstrate why current efforts to create bilingualism in the United States are not appropriate for the development of both education and society. Although hayakawa is himself an immigrant, he contends that all immigrant children should be taught English as a means to create a more cohesive society. Through his argument, he is able to downplay the role and importance of bilingual education in the United States. Even though hayakawa's essay may be well intentioned, the reality it produces is one that is not supportive of the diversity of america; a principle upon which this country has been established. Further, hayakawa's essay does not appear to take into consideration the realities of how difficult it can be for many immigrants to be successful in both society and in the educational system.The first problem with hayakawa's argument stems from the assertions that he makes about the importance of English to the development of the country. hayakawa contends that, "English unites us as American immigrants and native born alike.