The Social and Cultural Effects on the Use of English Language in Algeria: Case of Tlemcen and Oran, Two Different Regions

Abstract

English, nowadays, is the language of the world, it is used all around the globe in all kinds of transactions, yet its consideration as an essential communicating medium in Algeria is still unstated. The causes of the actual status of English might involve many aspects; however society and culture are two major components that might have a hand in the acceptance/rejection of this language and the establishment of its position in the Algerian linguistic landscape. In this track, a full understanding of the social and cultural status would help to understand the factual linguistic situation and locate strengths and weaknesses of English language. The study aims to discover the social and cultural factors that might hinder or support this language blossoming in Algeria. For this purpose two research tools were used: two surveys and an interview. The surveys aimed to study individuals and students as major actors in shaping the actual English language status. Then the interview was administered to a business company owners to get qualitative data about the status of English as a would be business language in Algeria at the expense of French language. The results indicate that English position in the Algerian society is flourishing.