[quote=briansd1][quote=deadzone]Again, why is being English centric a detriment? Like it or not English is the most important language in the world and is the only language necessary to be live and do business in the U.S. If Americans want to learn other languages that is great, but it is nothing but a hobby or intellectual pursuit for most.[/quote]
It’s a detriment because a foreign language is what makes a well-rounded person with an open perspective on the world.
Music, arts, literature, history, and sports also make for a well-rounded education.
I find that people who speak a foreign language are much more comfortable with themselves and don’t feel “threatened” when they hear a foreign language they don’t understand.[/quote]
IMHO, there are two mutually exclusive issues here.
First, if everyone in the US speaks English, the government has an easier(and cheaper) time communicating with the population.
Secondly, individuals are benefited from knowledge. Knowledge of language, arts, sports etc.
Put them together according to my logic and: people in the US should speak English first, and pursue a foreign language to enrich their lives.
