Tollefson's Language Policy and Political Economy Theory

Tollefson's Language Policy and Political Economy Theory suggests that language decisions are deeply influenced by economic and political forces. It posits that governments and powerful groups often shape language policies to serve their interests, such as maintaining dominance or control. Language is not just about communication but also tied to power, identity, and economic priorities. Reforming language policies requires understanding these underlying economic and political motives, recognizing that language choices reflect broader societal power structures rather than neutral or purely cultural factors.