Exploring the Contrast: Declination vs. Evolution

The Difference between Declension and Evolution

Evolution is an old concept as language itself. The fact that it brings change

with it, is what makes humanity uneasy. The discomfort coupled with the

introduction of uncertainty and the unknown makes it difficult to differentiate

between matters, in our case decline and progress.

The author, David Shariatmadari, argues “…Any given language is

significantly reconfigured over the centuries, to the extent that it becomes

unrecognizable…” This natural reconstruction system is how language sustains

itself. Shariatamadri continues “… there is no such thing as linguistic decline, so

far as the expressive capacity of the spoken or written word is concerned…”

Looking back on the history of language teaches us there have always been

concerns about the decline in the English language. It goes back as far as the 1400s

and even “… concerns of erosion to the point of communication with a grumble.”

However that has been proved to be nothing but the natural tendency of humanity

taking over, the fear of change to what we are accustomed to.

Concerns regarding the deterioration of grammar and usage of vocabulary

have always existed. The claim always seems to return to "The way it was spoken

and written when I was young was the most polished one." So far, we have not

established any criteria to measure which form is the best form to communicate.

Hence the argument of generations on which is the most suitable will continue

while language remains to evolve to keep up with the ever-changing character of

humanity.

Nevertheless, some languages have faced decline and eventual extinction over

time. The decline often correlates with a weakening economy among speakers of a

particular language, leading to a loss of prestige. Additionally, catastrophic events

resulting in the loss of speakers have contributed to the demise of certain

languages. Both of which, the English language is currently not facing.

The ever-increasing reach of social media might be the suspect in our

awareness and consequently the worry of decline in the English language but if we

can overlook the discomfort that is brought up by change, then perhaps we can tell

the difference between decline and evolution of the English language.

Works Cited

Shariatmadari, David. “Why it’s time to stop worrying about the decline of the

English language”. The Guardian, 15 May 2019,

www.theguardian.com/science/2019/aug/15/why-its-time-to-stop-worrying-about

the-decline-of-the-English-language

Tesch, Noah. “Why do languages die?”.

Brittanica,www.britannica.com/story/why-do-languages-die