Llengua catalana i futur: notes des d'una perspectiva eco-sistèmica

Resum

The author, basing his paper on recent theoretical perspectives, presents an ecological analysis aimed at viewing the dynamic of the sociolinguistic situation in Catalonia and pinpointing whatever means of intervention may be relevant for the construction of a future that will have a positive effect on the stability and normalcy of the Catalan language. The future is interrelated with the present and the past, since, according to sociologists, situations may perpetuate themselves in the future even though the causes that led to them are no longer part of the present. In the article, this idea is applied to sociolinguistic problems stemming from events which took place before 1975 but which nevertheless still persist in Catalonia. At the same time, the interaction between the two language groups (the Catalan-speaking group and the Spanish-speaking group) is set forth vis-à-vis one conditioning factor: the environment. The complexity of the current situation is due to the interrelationship between two factors which habitually cause language conflict: political subordination, which influences institutional Communications; and migratory flow, which influences individual Communications. In spite of standardization campaigns, most of the interaction between members of the two language groups take place in the language of the immigrant population. Catalan language policy faces a phenomenon which is difficult to modify, although generational change may bring about changes in the language community. In intergroup relationships, change depends on both groups. The author analyses possible scenarios for the evolution of each language group, and examines the future of institutional Communications. Attaining the requisite degree of language standardization entails, perforce, getting rid of the concept of language minority. Movement must be made towards individual polyglotism, under the influence of a united Europe and within the framework of a clear determination of the hegemonic functions of Catalan in internal Communications.