The quote emphasizes the importance of teaching foreign languages to young children, particularly those aged five years old. It suggests that introducing a second language at an early age can be highly beneficial and could help shift attitudes towards language learning from being seen as unnecessary or even undesirable to being viewed as essential. The speaker contrasts this with attitudes toward mathematics education, where some people take pride in their lack of proficiency.
The deeper meaning of the quote highlights societal resistance to embracing linguistic diversity and the perceived sufficiency of speaking English alone. Michael Gove argues that there is a cultural tendency to feel superior or satisfied about not speaking foreign languages, which he describes as "perverse." He implies that by focusing solely on English, individuals might believe they can communicate effectively without learning other languages. This narrow-minded approach, according to the speaker, reflects a lack of understanding and appreciation for global communication and cultural exchange.
Michael Gove is a British politician who served as Secretary of State for Education in the UK government from 2010 to 2014 and later held various cabinet positions under different prime ministers. Known for his conservative views on education reform, he often advocates for rigorous academic standards and traditional methods of teaching. His statement underscores his belief that early foreign language instruction can contribute significantly to a child's educational development and broader cultural awareness.
