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We now live in the Esperantists’ dreamworld, but the…

“We now live in the Esperantists’ dreamworld, but the universal language of natural science is English, a language that is the native tongue of some very powerful nation states and as a consequence not at all neutral [“Absolute English,” Aeon , February 4, 2015]” quote by Michael D. Gordin
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““We now live in the Esperantists’ dreamworld, but the universal language of natural science is English, a language that is the native tongue of some very powerful nation states and as a consequence not at all neutral [“Absolute English,” Aeon , February 4, 2015]””

Michael D. Gordin

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

English dominates scientific discourse, reflecting geopolitical power rather than neutrality.

In simple terms: English is the science language, not neutral.

Key Takeaway

Promote multilingual scientific communication.

Themes

Language Science Power Neutrality

Mood

analytical political

Type

English language:1 Language:1 Natural science:1 Science:1 Universal language:1 Native Tongue:1 Language Natural:0 Science English:0

When to use this quote

  • Language bias can marginalize non‑English speakers.

Key Concepts

Academic publishing international conferences policy drafting

Questions to Reflect On

  • critical
  • concerned
A Different Perspective

How does language shape scientific authority?;What are alternatives to English dominance?

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