Sociology may be defined in many unique ways but in class we discussed it being the scientific study of human interactions in a given environment. There are many other elements that can be added to this definition but when looking at global sociology we must open up our eyes to a much broader horizon. Instead of only looking on the local level or national level we must incorporate all the cultures in the world. It is every tradition, moral, belief, value and language. Language holds so much more than words. It is part of an individual and allows free expression. In order to achieve global sociology do we need to unify the language or exude joy over the variety? In the article, Challenges for a Global Sociology by Michael Burawoy, it states that even though the conference was held in Taiwan, they primarily spoke in English. Burawoy explained a thought many Americans and other English speakers take for granted. It is not easy to portray your exact thoughts or analysis on a community or type of people when English is not your mother tongue. This concept instantly upset me because as a Spanish major I believe it is crucial to learn another language beyond your own. When considering global sociology however, it holds more depth. How does one pass along information from continent to continent if there is not some kind of solid communication? In an addition article by Alison Kuiper, she mentions how students in Southeast Asia think almost all of international professional interactions must occur in English. This includes conferences, emails, and phone conversations. Success in this part of the world is seen only through the eyes of the worker who can speak English. The primary language of English is not only present in sociology but also in general business as seen in this article. Even though it is not the language all people speak at home, they know the importance of being able to use it. How do we move forward as one world and learn about others on a sociological scale while preserving numerous cultures?
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Article referenced in blog ---> http://web.ebscohost.com/ehost/pdfviewer/pdfviewer?sid=bdb2cb4a-c2ae-48cb-aa01-5f993d38761d%40sessionmgr15&vid=7&hid=11
"Language holds so much more than words. It is part of an individual and allows free expression" This line of your blog really stood out to me. I completely agree. Knowing another perons languag is not only important for communication but also in understainding their culture. At this point in time I do not soeak anither angueage. However, you have honestly made me want to learn! I really enjoyed reading this reflection and I absolutely loved how you ended it!
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