The Disadvantages of Saving Endangered Languages: Reevaluating the Value of Linguistic Preservation

The argument against saving endangered languages might seem trivial, but it raises important questions about the true value and practicality of language preservation efforts. The phonetic complexities, learning curves, and limited practical usage of many languages today, especially in the face of more globally accessible languages, might make the case that we should focus on a more streamlined, standardized, and broadly accessible linguistic solution.

The Value of a Simplified, International Auxiliary Language

I propose that instead of preserving every single language, we should focus on developing a proper International Auxiliary Language (IAL). This language should cater to several critical criteria, including ease of learning, phonetic structure, word formation, and efficiency in communication. The benefits of such a language would be substantial, as it could enhance international communication and foster a more interconnected global community.

Consider the current state of global languages. English, despite its phonetic and grammatical complexities, has managed to establish itself as a lingua franca due to its widespread use and cultural influence. However, it's far from perfect. Its phoneme system is inconsistent, and its grapheme system is a patchwork of quirks that make it challenging for non-native speakers to learn efficiently. An IAL, on the other hand, could leverage a well-designed system of phonemes and graphemes that would make it easier for people to learn and use effectively.

The Potential of a Proposed International Language

The idea of a standardized IAL is not new; there have been various attempts, such as Esperanto, which despite good intentions, have largely failed to gain widespread traction. The key to success lies in the scientific and linguistic rigor of the language design. A team comprising linguists, cognitive scientists, and other experts could work on developing a language that would not only be easy to learn but also practical and efficient for everyday communication.

Imagine a future where people can communicate seamlessly across borders and cultures using a language that is designed from the ground up to be accessible and user-friendly. This project could be ambitious and complex, but the potential benefits far outweigh the initial costs. It would provide linguists with a unique opportunity to contribute to a significant and meaningful project that could reshape global communication for the better.

The Costs and Trade-offs

Potentially, the resources required for such a project could be significant, particularly in terms of time and financial investment. However, this resource expenditure could be seen as a long-term investment in the future of global communication and cooperation. It's important to note that this cost is not unique to the project of creating an IAL. ANY large-scale endeavor, whether it's preserving languages or addressing global issues like poverty and access to clean water, requires significant resources.

The reality is that we must prioritize our efforts. While it's crucial to address immediate humanitarian challenges like poverty and access to clean water, long-term investments in improving the global communication infrastructure should not be dismissed. Investing in an IAL could lead to more efficient and effective cross-cultural interactions, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.

In conclusion, while the preservation of languages is an important cultural and historical endeavor, the case for creating a streamlined, internationally accessible language should not be overlooked. The development of a well-designed IAL could provide substantial benefits in terms of global communication and cooperation. This project is not just a fascinating academic pursuit; it could be a transformative step towards a more interconnected and cooperative world.