The Multilingual Advantage: Foreign Language as a Social Skill in a Globalized World

In an increasingly globalized and interconnected world, a multilayered contact of local, regional, international
languages and linguae franc he is the norm, rather than the exception. Much has been written about the bilingual
advantage, but beyond the bilingual advantage lies the multilingual advantage, both for the individual and for
society at large. Foreign language skills are the ultimate 21st century social skill, and those who do not possess
these skills risk being left behind, in the global marketplace of ideas, in the workplace, and even in social and
personal life. Americans are among the least likely in the world to learn a foreign language and have the most to
lose in the developing global linguistic scenario. This article examines the nature and importance of
multilingualism in a globalized world and the potential consequences for individuals, organizations, and societies
who remain resolutely monolingual..
This article looks at the notion of multilingualism and how this supersedes bilingualism. This research study examines the nature and importance of multilingualism in a globalized world and the potential consequences for individuals, organizations, and societies who remain resolutely monolingual..
Keywords: multilingualism, global citizenship, creativity, social skills, cultural intelligence.