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this post was submitted on 07 Nov 2023
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Really, any reason in particular for this change?
Geopolitics. Learning English was always forbidden behind the Iron Curtain. You may argue that it does not exist anymore but how do you explain this?
I mean, that's just demonstratively wrong. I've got plenty to criticize about China, but I personally know multiple people who got offers to teach English over there with a very, very basic understanding of Chinese
They most certainly prize speaking English without an accent... I'm not saying it's a good deal, but they most certainly encourage the program
How about this? https://www.nytimes.com/2021/09/09/business/china-english.html
I'd explain it by saying they're attempting to "rebuild pride in their Chinese heritage". After years of Western culture being equated with prosperity, they're pushing to build a new national identity more convenient for them
Many countries have efforts to try to preserve their culture against American media - like France limits the amount of English songs on the radio. They still teach people English aggressively in schools - it's the primary language of trade and technology
The PRC just wants it both ways. They want the advantages of globalization and speaking the international language, but they want it to be culturally stigmatized too
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