Refactoring English

In the realm of software engineering, we witness daily advancements. Tools that once demanded extensive coding, say a hundred lines in JavaScript back in 2005, now only require a mere two lines in Python. This simplification, although it might seem trivial, represents a profound shift in our approach to problem-solving. It’s known as refactoring.

In the process of refactoring, the code is streamlined, applications run more efficiently, and developers can craft increasingly complex systems in less time. This phenomenon isn't just a technical exercise; it's a core competency for many thriving SaaS enterprises. Not only that, but it also provides a chance to enhance productivity and revisit prior assumptions with a new perspective. The significance of “fresh eyes” in this context cannot be understated, but that is a discussion for another time.

Let's pivot to a conceptual refactoring: the refactoring of the English language itself. To ground things a bit, consider a historical example. In 1755, Samuel Johnson authored the first comprehensive English dictionary - an endeavor I would categorize as a linguistic refactor. Prior to this, the spelling in literary works (exaggerated and exemplified by Shakespeare) was inconsistent and largely phonetic. This variability might have enriched theatrical expressions, but it proved inefficient for disseminating written literature.

Reflect back to our early days of learning, writing the alphabet and struggling through basic phonetics. Words like "cat" or "big" were our initial building blocks, simple and phonetically logical. Yet, as our reading materials grew in complexity, that consistency deteriorated. I still remember, as a first-grader, misreading "naked" as "naekt," a humorous, yet telling example. Though, by the time we move into adulthood, language transitions from a decoding task to a much more intuitive form of communication - it just flows.

Here's a radical proposition: English ought to be refactored - simplified, standardized, and made more accessible, especially for non-native speakers. Consider the potential benefits: a surge in global English proficiency, a reduction in cultural barriers, and an explosion in the global exchange of information.

This is not crazy. We are actually uniquely positioned to make this change. By revising online dictionaries, modifying autocorrect functions across digital devices, and overhauling educational curriculums starting with the incoming kindergarten class, we can bring about a new linguistic era.

In my next post, I'll outline some specific rules that could form the basis for these new spelling standards, derived from the phonetics used today. But make no mistake, this is more than a theoretical exercise - it's a call to action. By leveraging our technological prowess, we could catalyze unprecedented cultural and communicative improvement.