The Dual Roles Of English In The Multicultural Context Of Singapore: Product And Propeller

The result of extensive indigenization of English is emergence of New Englishes, among which Singapore English is one typical example. It has thus attracted attention of linguists around the world.Researchers so far usually focus on the emergence, development and application of Singapore English. Few studies pay attention to the position and function of English in Singapore society and culture. This research is intended to study the dual roles that English plays in Singapore social culture, trying to develop the theme that English is not only the product, but also the propeller of Singapore social evolution.The thesis in four parts analyzes the position of Singapore English in its multilingual and multicultural context.The first part introduces indigenization of English and concept of New Englishes. Also presented are the existence of Singapore English and its multicultural circumstances.Part Two is about how Singapore English evolves as cultural product, rooted in the special historical, linguistic and multilingual context.Part Three focuses on the propelling function of English to Singapore multiculture, mainly involving its promotion on Singapore politics, economy, education and national identity etc.Part Four includes conclusion and further perspectives on Singapore English. It points out that English will be even more important in the new century, not only for Singapore, but all the other countries.