Google ‘Endangered Languages Project’ Saves History
Vivian Lau — June 28, 2012 — Pop Culture
References: endangeredlanguages & good.is
It is said that 50% of the languages that are present today will disappear by the year 2100—bone-chilling statistics like these spurred the launch of the Google ‘Endangered Languages Project.’
Ultimately, language enables communication that is crucial for survival. Imagine being the last person on the planet who is able to speak your native tongue; you would get lonely, frustrated and then alienated because nobody would be able to understand you. You would not be able to share your own experiences and stories. Likening the waning of a language to the dwindling of a species, the Google project acts as a comprehensive online archive for the thousands of different tongues. People may upload information, videos and other relevant samples of their language to preserve it.
This initiative guards against the prospect of the world becoming a less interesting place.
Ultimately, language enables communication that is crucial for survival. Imagine being the last person on the planet who is able to speak your native tongue; you would get lonely, frustrated and then alienated because nobody would be able to understand you. You would not be able to share your own experiences and stories. Likening the waning of a language to the dwindling of a species, the Google project acts as a comprehensive online archive for the thousands of different tongues. People may upload information, videos and other relevant samples of their language to preserve it.
This initiative guards against the prospect of the world becoming a less interesting place.
Trend Themes
1. Disappearing Languages - Opportunity for language preservation projects and technology solutions to prevent the loss of diverse languages.
2. Digital Archives - Potential for the development of advanced online platforms and tools for archiving and preserving cultural heritage.
3. Community Engagement - Opportunity for community-driven initiatives and collaboration in language preservation efforts.
Industry Implications
1. Education - Education institutions can explore integrating language preservation programs and curricula to raise awareness and encourage language diversity.
2. Technology - Tech companies can develop innovative digital preservation solutions and platforms for archiving endangered languages.
3. Cultural Preservation - Organizations focused on cultural preservation can leverage the Google 'Endangered Languages Project' to enhance their efforts and protect linguistic heritage.
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