Modernity, Globalization and Asian Englishes

Abstract

This chapter explores the changing sociolinguistics of the Asian region with reference to economic, cultural and social forces linked to the dynamics of modernity and globalization. It is generally accepted that the spread of English in the Asian region has been fuelled by economic, educational, social and technological factors, many of which can be explained by the rather recent shift to modernity that is in progress, or has already taken place, in Asian societies, instantiated through urbanization and the evolution of ‘modern life’ in all its forms. This in turn has also facilitated the spread of English, proficiency in which is often regarded as a means of educational and economic advancement. This chapter discusses research from a range of Outer Circle (such as India, Singapore, and the Philippines) and Expanding Circle (for example, China, Indonesia and South Korea) societies, with particular reference to the dynamics of Asian Englishes.