Is English destroying Denmark's identity?

In recent months, debate has raged in Denmark about whether English should become the country's official second language. The mere suggestion has enraged some people, provoking many interesting comments.

Some commentators have gone so far as to vilify Danish business people for speaking English (23 August, Kristeligt Dagblad, Vort modersmål er dejligt, by Lone Scocozza). Ms. Scocozza argues that by embracing English, Denmark risks losing much of its unique identity.

But what about Denmark's place in the global economy? How can Danish businesses best make themselves heard?

Official or not, English is a critical part of the Danish business world. And, in fact, mastering the English language in all its nuances may be vital to the survival of Denmark's precious heritage.

Bottom-line impact
Denmark has an identity and international reputation that Danish businesses can leverage to good effect around the globe. But only if they communicate with a voice and language the rest of the world understands.

When a business doesn't communicate effectively with its international stakeholders, its days as a global player are probably numbered. Lars Nørby Johansen, chairperson of Danmarks ErhvervsforskningsAkademis Akademiråd, recently commented that "a lack of linguistic competencies prevents small and medium-sized companies from moving into the export market, which, in effect, hinders their own growth." (September 2006, Magasinet for Kommunikation og Sprog, article by Anna Dalsgaard.)

The power of rhetoric
The American philosopher David Hume once said, "Eloquence, at its highest pitch, leaves little room for reason or reflection, but addresses itself entirely to the desires and affections, captivating the willing hearers, and subduing their understanding."

In a world where English is the dominant cross-cultural language, Danes are forced to communicate their ideas, principles and political viewpoints to Americans, the British and other native English speakers who can present their own arguments using eloquent and persuasive rhetoric.

English as Denmark's second language
Having sat through many international business meetings and presentations, we've seen the cultural gap that is opened up by less-than-perfect English. If Danish businesspeople, politicians and scientists are to have the power to persuade, they need to master the art of eloquence. 

What will this take? Denmark to adopt English as its second language? It would certainly help to narrow the cultural and clarity gap. Only with full, eloquent mastery of the English language in all its power and nuances can the voice of Denmark be clearly heard by the rest of the world.

So, do we want to leave it up to native English speakers to convince the world, or should we equip Denmark with eloquence to command a greater share of the world's attention?

We'd like to hear your opinion on this debate. Please feel free to drop us a line and let us know.

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WordNerds

Did you know...?
Nuance is a subtle difference in meaning, opinion or attitude.

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David Hume is generally regarded as the most important philosopher ever to write in English. Born in Scotland in 1711, he was also a leading economist and historian.