Language Dynamism and Nation Building: A Focus on the English Language

Abstract

The dynamic nature of language makes it possible for it to change over time, across space and within a society. Such occasional change and transformation are strong factors that have a significant impact on how a nation survives amidst diversity. Language dynamism has some positive effects on nation building on the basis that the survival of a nation and its success in maintaining a strong national identity depend on the existence of languages which the people can speak, read, write and understand for effective communication. The purpose of this research is to explore the relationship between language change and the evolving nature of a nation’s identity with respect to its history and details of language change and interactions. Using the qualitative analysis, the research applies the use of texts, interviews, archival data, content analysis and questionnaires. Changes in meaning and pronunciation, borrowing and invention of new words, updates and revisions of existing texts as well as other forms of language dynamism come together to promote understanding and cohesion among diverse communities. The study and analysis of data exposes different ways and times languages have changed over time, the impact on nation building and possible improvement measures to employ to achieve a stronger national identity.