CAUSES OF LANGUAGE DEATH

Abstract

Language death, the process by which a language ceases to be spoken and understood by future generations, represents a significant cultural and intellectual loss. This study investigates the primary causes contributing to the global phenomenon of language death through a qualitative analysis of scholarly literature, institutional reports, and documented case studies. The findings reveal that language death is driven by a complex interplay of economic globalization, political repression, urbanization, intergenerational transmission failure, and cultural assimilation. These factors often work synergistically, gradually displacing minority and indigenous languages in favor of dominant national or global tongues. The study underscores that language death is not merely a linguistic issue but a reflection of broader socio-political dynamics and power imbalances. It also highlights the importance of proactive community engagement, inclusive language policies, and revitalization efforts in preserving linguistic diversity. The conclusions offer a foundation for further research into effective language maintenance strategies and call attention to the urgent need for policy interventions at both local and international levels.