| Project Title: | A public opinion on the effect of language barrier on racial assimilation |
| Author: | Mr. Tony Nwabueze |
| Advisor: | Associate Professor Dr. Tatree Nontasak |
| Degree: | Master of Arts |
| Major: | Peace Studies and Diplomacy |
| Faculty: | Graduate Schools |
| Academic year: | 2017 |
Citation
Nwabueze, Tony. (2017). A public opinion on the effect of language barrier on racial assimilation. (Master’s independent study). Bangkok: Siam University.
Abstract
Despite the collegiate and congenial relationship that exists between Thais and foreigners, especially Nigerians, in academic and nonacademic environments alike, there are still traces of discrimination, isolation, and discrepancies, and this discriminatory gap must be breached. To actualize interracial assimilation, a mastery of English is a necessity and a major factor. School authorities, field and office workers, students, and the government must mobilize their efforts toward this goal, playing major and important roles in producing a society in which no such sociocultural or linguistic gaps or discriminatory activities exist. The objective of this study is to explore the effects of the language barrier in the assimilation between Nigerians and Thais to understand why a racial gap exists between the groups. A mixed method of primary and secondary research has been used to analyze this research, including a literature review, documentation, and interviews. The results reveal that the language barrier, cultural differences, inferiority complexes, orientation, religious beliefs, the media, personally preconceived notions of the respective other, a lack of interest due to personal reasons, the inability to carry on a discussion and above all parental advice based on ancient customs, are the main hindrances in the assimilation between these two groups of people. Thus, the stronger the barrier, the less assimilation there is. Nigerians living in Thailand need to leam the Thai culture, language, and traditions to generate a clear and mutual understanding between Nigerians and Thais. This research reveals that if Nigerians and other foreigners speak the Thai language, there is a reduction in discrimination and an increase in the tendency for mutually respectful relationships to exist.
Keywords: Assimilation Barrier, External factors, Socialization.
A public opinion on the effect of language barrier on racial assimilation
Master of Arts in Peace Studies and Diplomacy, Siam University, Bangkok, Thailand