STANDARD ENGLISH IN THE AGE OF GLOBALIZATION:BENEFITS AND CHALLENGES

Abstract

The ideology of a standard language implies a belief in an idealized, homogeneous form of language that is institutionally privileged and imposed from above, often leading to the suppression of linguistic diversity. This ideology establishes a hierarchy among language varieties, typically favoring those associated with socially prestigious communities and marginalizing others. From a linguistic perspective, all language varieties are equally valid and capable of expression; however, the notion of a "standard" language persists as an abstract concept, defined primarily in contrast to the speech of marginalized groups, rather than as a natural social norm. In the context of globalization, English has become the dominant language of international communication, particularly in international business and other global contexts. This privileged status is not inherent to the language itself, but rather a consequence of historical and social power relations, including colonization and the global influence of English-speaking countries. The adoption of English as a neutral means of overcoming linguistic diversity, exemplified by the concept of business English as the lingua franca, further strengthens its dominant position. This phenomenon has been criticized as "linguistic imperialism" that poses a threat to the viability of other languages ​​and language varieties.