Spelling reform (was Re: Shorthand)

From: Edward Cherlin (edward.cherlin.sy.67@aya.yale.edu)
Date: Sun Aug 22 1999 - 18:29:49 EDT


At 10:24 -0700 8/20/1999, peter_constable@sil.org wrote:
[snip]

> if phonetic spelling of English were suddenly forced on the
> world today, it would probably have a major impact on the
> status of the language, with major repercussions for
> international business, research, etc. Of course, that's an
> extremely hypothetical scenario that would never be remotely
> tolerated and, therefore, could only happen in some Orwellian
> world of WriteRight (er... RiteRite).
>
> Peter

I think it would be helpful for participants in this thread to read "Meihem
in ce Klasrum" by Dolton Edwards (Astounding Science Fiction, September
1946, Volume XXXVIII, Number 1), before continuing. The full text is
available at
http://www.agapesystems.com/campbell/chris/meihem.htm

"Our own plan would achieve the same end as the legislation proposed by Mr.
Shaw, but in a less shocking manner, as it consists merely of an
acceleration of the normal processes by which the language is continually
modernized.

"As a catalytic agent, we would suggest that a "National Easy Language Week" be
proclaimed,..."

--
Edward Cherlin   edward.cherlin.sy.67@aya.yale.edu
"It isn't what you don't know that hurts you, it's
what you know that ain't so."--Mark Twain, or else
some other prominent 19th century humorist and wit



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