In a thought-provoking study published in the Armenian Folia Anglistika, Narine Harutyunyan explores the complex and controversial issue of multiculturalism in modern Britain. The research delves into the transformation of linguistic and cultural components within the country, focusing on the emergence of new English varieties, such as ethnolects and multiethnolects, resulting from interactions between different ethnic groups. The findings were published in the journal Armenian Folia Anglistika.
Multiculturalism has long been hailed as a progressive and democratic policy, fostering a multicultural environment in many countries. However, Harutyunyan’s study argues that the concept has both positive and negative aspects. While it promotes cultural diversity and freedom of movement, it also poses significant challenges to social and cultural cohesion. The study highlights concerns about the integration of non-racial, non-religious migrants into European, particularly British, society.
One of the central themes of Harutyunyan’s study is the emergence of new varieties of English, known as ethnolects and multiethnolects. These linguistic forms have developed in response to the multicultural environment in Britain. Multicultural London English (MLE) is a prime example, originating from the East End of London. MLE combines elements of various languages spoken by immigrant communities, such as Jamaican, African, Somali, and Indian languages, with traditional Cockney English.
The study underscores that MLE is more than just a dialect; it represents a socio-cultural phenomenon that reflects the dynamic interplay between different ethnic groups. Harutyunyan explains that the distinctive vocabulary, phonetics, and syntax of MLE are its defining features. For instance, Arabic words like “wallahi” (I swear to God) and “ahi” (brother) have become part of the everyday speech of young Londoners, alongside Jamaican terms like “blood” (friend) and “whagwan” (what’s up).
The prevalence of MLE among young people indicates a shift in linguistic identity. As these individuals grow older and pass on their language habits to their children, MLE becomes more entrenched in the fabric of London’s linguistic landscape. This trend highlights the evolving nature of language in response to multicultural influences.
While MLE demonstrates the linguistic adaptation to multiculturalism, Harutyunyan’s study raises critical questions about the broader implications of multicultural policies. The study points out that the ideology of multiculturalism, once seen as a solution to integrate diverse ethnic groups into a cohesive society, is now facing significant criticism. Harutyunyan argues that the creation of ethnic enclaves and the persistence of linguistic barriers contribute to social disintegration and ghettoisation of minority groups.
The study also addresses the phenomenon of “cancellation culture” of the white race, reflecting on the social and linguistic aspects of integrating migrants into British society. Harutyunyan discusses the formation of a hybrid identity and expresses concerns about the potential negative impact of the “easternisation” of Europe.
A particularly contentious issue highlighted in the study is the incorporation of Islamic Sharia elements into English law. Harutyunyan notes that prominent figures, such as the former Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, have suggested that aspects of Sharia law should be integrated into the legal system. This proposal has sparked debates about the increasing influence of Islam in British society, exemplified by the term “Londonistan” to describe the growing number of mosques in London.
Linguists predict that the sound “th” may disappear from the English language by 2066 due to difficulties non-native speakers face in pronouncing it. This forecast underscores the profound impact of migration on the evolution of the English language. Harutyunyan cites the work of Professor Paul Kerswill, who predicts that MLE will become mainstream in the future, reflecting broader societal changes driven by multicultural influences.
