Abstract:
English occupies a paradoxical position in Asia, serving as both a vehicle
for socio-economic mobility and a source of cultural and linguistic tension.
The study aims to critically trace the historical development of English in the
region, from its colonial origins to its present status as a global language; to
analyze its influence on social mobility and the widening of socio-economic
inequalities; and to study its impact on local cultures, native languages, and
traditional knowledge systems amid tensions between global and local forces.
Using case studies from India, China, and Southeast Asia, the article shows
that while English facilitates access to global opportunities, it also reinforces
social divides and marginalizes indigenous identities. It further highlights how
English often threatens linguistic and cultural diversity, raising concerns about
homogenization. However, it also demonstrates how Asian societies creatively
adapt and appropriate English to assert agency within global contexts. The
article argues for a balanced approach that maximizes the pragmatic benefits
of English while safeguarding linguistic and cultural diversity, promoting a
more inclusive and culturally sensitive model of development across Asia.
