On various occasions, especially in trying to think of…
““On various occasions, especially in trying to think of western American history in the context of the worldwide history of colonialism, it has struck me that much of the mental behavior that we sometimes denounce as ethnocentrism and cultural insensitivity actually derives less from our indifference or hostility than from our clumsiness and awkwardness when we leave the comfort of the English language behind... [V]enturing outside the bounds of the English language exercises and stretches our minds in ways that are essential for getting as close as we can to the act of seeing the world from what would otherwise remain unfamiliar and alien perspectives.””
About This Quote
Source Book: The New World: The Making of America by Patricia Nelson Limerick, 2020
Stepping outside English reveals cultural biases and expands understanding of global histories.
In simple terms: Learning other languages broadens perspective.
Key Takeaway
Embrace linguistic diversity.
Themes
language
colonialism
history
perspective
empathy
Mood
intellectual
reflective
Type
American history:1
Colonialism:1
English language:1
Ethnocentrism:1
Fitness:0
Habits:0
History:1
Human nature:1
Seeing the world:1
Cultural Insensitivity:1
Denounce Ethnocentrism:0
Ethnocentrism Cultural:0
When to use this quote
- travel
- language study
- academic research
Key Concepts
linguistics
postcolonial studies
cognitive flexibility
Questions to Reflect On
- How does language shape thought?
- What challenges arise in translation?
A Different Perspective
Language barriers can persist despite effort.