The number of languages spoken across the globe is falling rapidly. While some linguists say we should do everything possible to preserve disappearing languages and cultures, others say there’s nothing wrong with the growing dominance of English. A panel talks about the cycles that mark language usage and what is being done to preserve rare languages.

Guests

  • Alan Soukhanov U.S. general editor of the Encarta World English Dictionary
  • Peter Ladefoged Professor emeritus of linguistics at the University of California-Los Angeles
  • Ives Goddard National Museum of Natural History
  • Barbara Grimes Editor of "Ethnologue"
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