This editorial that I read about Taiwan's efforts to implement English into the instruction of schoolchildren seemed interesting because all the discussions we've had in the past seem to perceive English as a threat. On the one hand we have countries such as France and China which are taking measures such as eliminating the use of English acronyms to defend their country against English and on the other hand we have Taiwan who, according to the author of this editorial, must increase the presence of English in Taiwanese society.

When comparing both cases, the actions taken on the part of each country seem to be a response to the threat of a larger influence. For China and France, the perceived threat is the United States of America; meanwhile, for Taiwan, the perceived threat is the People's Republic of China. In fact, the author urges Taiwan to open itself up to globalization, seeming to take a position contrary to the other countries we have discussed. Globalization is seen as strengthening "social equity" and the country's "trade and investment." However, would this sacrifice the culture of the country?

The editorial describes schoolchildren as being "doomed to stay 'locked' on Taiwan or other Chinese." Obviously, having this sort of attitude towards a language would serve to devalue it. Thus, it seems that the author of this editorial may be taking the wrong approach to adapting English. There is no recognition of the value in speaking a language that a country can call their own. It may be beneficial to implement English, but I don't believe that it should be at the expense of the native language and culture of Taiwan.