From Duncan Cameron
Why do so many languages coexist in some parts of the world (8 December 2012, p 38)? Most languages, like many species, become extinct, making the history of language, especially how it dies out, a bit of a sketchy affair. However, I believe when states form they squeeze out small languages.
Regions of the world where state formation is relatively recent – such as New Guinea and eastern Siberia – are the areas with greatest linguistic diversity. China and Europe, with a long history of strong states, have fewer diverse languages. New Guinea’s multiplicity of languages is remarkable – but I don’t believe it can be explained by inter-group rivalry and tropical climate.
Brighton, East Sussex, UK
