From Knowledge to Power: The Slow but Resolute Progress of English as the Language of Science

Abstract

This paper considers some of the possible reasons for the use of English as the international language of science. An exploration of the evolution of science in English culture is a decisive step in understanding why the language has become so prestigious in the communication of science, to the extent that non-native scientists learn it and use it as their principle means of expression. It is argued that events in the history of modern science, from its beginnings to the present time, have played a crucial role in the modelling of scientific English and its worldwide expansion. The picture painted here, it is hoped, will convince the reader that, at least in this case, history matters.