Language Ideologies: Arabic and English from a Sociolinguistic Perspective

Michael Silverstein (1979) defined language ideologies as "any sets of beliefs about language articulated by the users as a rationalization or justification of perceived language structure and use" (Silverstein, 1979, p193). Such patterns and beliefs are not stable since several factors can change policies, views, and the role of a language in society (Seargeant & Swann, 2012). Nevertheless, the hegemony of the English language is currently highlighted as a source of concern for sociolinguists who believe that the prevalence of English is not only related to economic and social realms, but it is also expanding to affect ideological beliefs about other languages in their native communities (Seargeant & Swann, 2012). The present study investigates what language ideologies are prevalent in the Arab world towards both English and Arabic and how the hegemony of the English Language is reflected in beliefs and practices. Breckler’s (1984) components for measuring the negative and positive aspects of a social attitude were used for examining and interpreting the data obtained via a questionnaire distributed in 10 Arab countries. Results indicated a tendency towards more extensive use of English for various purposes including some daily life activates and a more limitation to the role of Standard Arabic to official and religious practices.