The impact of American culture on other cultures: Language and cultural identity

摘要

It is widely believed that there is a natural connection between the language spoken by members of a social group and that group's identity. Despite the belief in the one language = one culture equation, individuals assume several collective identities that are likely not only to change over time in dialogue with others, but are liable to be in conflict with one another. The widespread Internet, the American dream, the American way of life and the American culture have come to symbolize what is up-to-date and fashionable, becoming increasingly international and imitated around the world, to the detriment of local traditions and national identities, which seem to fade away in front of something not necessarily superior in point of value.