Hello friends I am shaikh from india. I am looking forward to suggestions for an International standard of English as different from American and British standards of monopoly. If figures are to be believed, almost half the earth population is bound to become fluent in English just a generation or two from now. In the event of such an unprecedented development, native English speakers will become a miniscule minority in comparison to the overwhelming majority of non-native English speakers. In any case, many non-native speakers are excellent in observing the rules of Grammar and Syntax as evident from scanning TOEFL/IELTS scores of Asian students applying for studying in the UK/USA/Australia.
In such a changing world order, the fact that regional/local developments and particular cultural contexts often influence a language from within throws open the possibility of anarchy and confusion in the way the Queen's language to be used in the future. Already, in India a debate ensues over whether or not to delegalise British English and replace it with Indian standards. Supposing China becomes as conversant in English as India is today, similar debates may be generated over there. African countries have their own principles to honour. With the rise of Asia and Africa as world powers, the USA and England will be forced to reckon with the grown-up men of tomorrow.
The World English debate should not be taken frivolously. Unlike the UN which has become the joke of an institution thanks to mindless intervention by Uncle Sam, the World English should be more democratic in principles. And, in 25 years time, India and China will be way too powerful to exert their influence in shaping anything that World English may demand.In such a situation, people of countries smaller in size and stature must come forward to make a democratic alliance so that arm-twisting tactics don't work. The task begins right now and must be carried diligently by all people of this world.
The World Wide Web and the global media as well as Television and Cinema are going to play a pivotal role in chiselling the development of World English. Smart gadgets like PDA's, mobile phones and iPods have changed forever the way we communicate. Chat Rooms speak their own brand of English constantly undergoing sea changes every day.
Unfortunately, the task of establishing World standards of English lie with politicians having vested interests and narrow minds. The British Prime Minister would not like to lose his country's predominance in the English theatre, nor would the American President. The task should be entrusted with academics the world over. With increased interactions between people the world over, significantly reducing distances because of increased purchasing power parity and Cinemas, such an endeavour is the best practical solution for the benefit of humanity.
If we don't take immediate steps to develop a World English, chances are that English much less being dreamt of as a Global language may die the way Latin did and divide into so many offshoots that a millenia from now, to a person sitting in London, Indian English may sound more difficult to understand than Russian or Greek.
A doomsday scenario in which Everybody's English will become Nobody's English.
Comments, suggestions, criticisms and feedback invited from all Global citizens.