Benefits Of Speaking Multiple Languages

Language is absolutely central to one’s learning: without it, one cannot make sense or communicate one’s understanding of a subject. Nelson Mandela once said, "If you talk to man in a language he understands, it goes to his head. If you talk to him in his language it goes to his heart."

Learning a foreign language can have multiple benefits. While the obvious ones include that it opens up new job opportunities, the not so obvious ones are that it helps people to connect with others from a different culture which is all part of a unique and surreal experience.

A recent study by Yudhijit Bhattacharjee (of the NY Times) talked about the fact that bilinguals (individuals speaking two languages) are often smarter than those speaking only one. Bhattacharjee compared the scenario in the 20th century where researchers, educators and policy makers considered a second language to be an interference, cognitively speaking, that hindered a child’s academic and intellectual development.

However, he mentioned that this interference can be a blessing in disguise for bilinguals as it forces the brain to resolve internal conflict, giving the mind a workout that strengthens its cognitive muscles.

Learning a foreign language can be of utmost importance as it offers a global platform for people. Many universities are, thus, including a foreign language as part of their curricula. This gives their students an advantage over those studying in universities which aren’t offering a language as an additional subject.

Being bilingual or multilingual can benefit people in many other ways. It helps them get an outsider’s perspective about their own culture as well as have a glimpse into the world and culture on the other side.

The world is becoming a global economy. Everyone is doing business with everyone. The world has witnessed a paradigm shift as the barriers of language have been brought down by globalisation. Being able to converse in an additional language can have a huge impact on people looking to capitalise on these trends.

Learning a new language is like a bridge between two different cultures. It is a boon for all those wishing to travel to different countries and meet new people. With the language barrier removed, travellers can have authentic and unique experiences in these countries. Travelling essentially becomes more fun when people don’t have to worry about translating every signboard on the street. Travellers can enjoy freely and meet new people and have a better understanding of the country’s culture.