Do some people actually view Ebonics as a legitimate language?

Question

It seems to me that it is just a degradation of the English language, and should be avoided at all costs as it identifies you as an ignorant poor person. When it is embraced by entertainers, it further degrades the English language. Thoughts?

Answer 1

You are a little behind the times, my friend. The re-labeling of ***** folk English as "Ebonics" was just a part of the Political Correctness movement of the late 80's/early 90's. It crashed and burned, and those who propagated it kind of backed away covering their faces!

It was also akin to the creation of terms such as "African American"; again spurred by the thought that renaming things could boost the self esteem and overall dignity of an entire race. These and other conceptual fiascoes were actually invented by rich left wing White people who from time to time feel guilty about their station in life in relation to the poor minorities, and so seek to bridge that gap with words rather than deeds.

What the hell? The Blacks feel better because they can call themselves African Americans, and proudly spout Ebonics and the rich Liberals can pat themselves on the back as if they have solved one of the world's big problems, and go back to not giving a s'hit.

And you're right; it not only degrades the language, it further degrades those that espouse the concept and further cements their place as the world's chumps!

Answer 2

Don't get too hung up on the term, "letitimate"

Ebonics IS a legitimate language in that it is used to communicate information between people who share that language. Many languages are derived from other tongues. The so called, "Romance" languages of French, Spanish and Italian are based on Latin. These languages were considered bastardized forms of Latin by the purists of that time.

The English language of just 6 hundred years ago more closely resembled the German of the time. English purists from Britain even now look down on the "American" language.

Legitimacy is won by usage.

Answer 3

I'm a southerner & I compare "Ebonics" to the southern dialect.
I suspect some Yankees look down on us for saying "fixin' to" & "ya'll" just like they look down on blacks saying "Let me ax you something." and "Don't be dissing me."

I think of Jeff Foxworthy's joke: "People hear this (southern) accent & want to automatically deduct 20 IQ points." How many IQ points do you think get deducted from someone speaking "Ebonics"?

What's bad is when people can't speak "proper" English when they need to. I will always have a southern accent, but I can tone it down for an interview, & hold back the southern phrases I gave as examples. But too many blacks (not all) seem to be incapable of NOT saying things like "I be a good worker." And then they wonder why they didn't get the job.

But for casual discussion, regional speech can enrich the language. And we should all focus more on WHAT someone is saying than on HOW they say it.

Answer 4

Actully yes! ebonics is a language..Not a very proper one. There are alot of college courses that study language and ebonics is part of the lessons. Ebonics is studied at alot of top 10 schools. Yale and Harvard have such courses. Stupid huh? some dumb *****'s make millions right'n a song about shooting and drugs and they give them their own language..Gotta love America!

Answer 5

First.. let me sat that I am a proud, flag waving American who served his country proudly and if called upon, would do it again.

Ebonics is a continuation of the bastardization of the Kings English. First simplified and changed by US Colonialists, 250 years ago. Now, further simplified and bastardized by urban americans and wannbe children who think that, as with everything else they do, short cuts and laziness is "as it should be"

Answer 6

Ignorant, Yes. Poor, no.

Answer 7

I could not have said it better. i agree, it reeks of east L.A, trailer trash and the projects