Beyond Babel is a four part television series exploring English as a global language. The series looks at the use of English in international trade, culture, politics and on the internet. It also shows the how the spread of English has affected endangered minority languages and explores its relationship with other widely spoken international languages, such as Spanish and Mandarin.
Culture looks at the phenomenal appeal of English as a vehicle for artistic expression. It features Shakespeare's Globe Theatre, BBC World Service, Channel [V], church services in Atlanta and Johannesburg,and The British Library.
Politics examines the role of English as the medium of international political discourse and diplomacy and its adoption by those seeking freedom and justice.
Over 70% of the world's scientific research is now recorded in English and science accounts for the fastest growing area of the already immense English vocabulary.