We are looking for ways to remain relevant, by seeking refuge in identities that we feel can't be taken away from us, even though they are quite irrelevant and should have little to no bearing on our humanity.
Well said!
I got a bit peeved when I first read that Trump had mandated that professional drivers speak English fairly well. I thought "there he goes again, making an executive order with the force of law, which is not a power he is supposed to have." I also didn't believe it. So, I looked it up, and he has indeed issued this order. However, it turns out that he is merely doing his job here, because there is a Federal law, properly passed by the legislature, that has not been followed because of a "guidance" issued by Obama. Trump's order reverses Obama's guidance. Capriciousness at the highest levels.
Sure, but this article is outside of the specifics of Trump - this was just the catalyst for the piece :) As far as I see it, it really isn't going to be necessary to speak any particular language in the near future, because we have tools that can do all the translation on the fly. The idea of "having to learn a language to be productive" will become archaic. It is already a limiting factor that holds back many from being more productive in various communities, and it becomes an unnecessary skill.
Just imagine if a person wasn't able to work, unless they could play the piano adequately. It becomes an unnecessary hurdle.
I get the need for language skill now - but for how long is it a need?
I knew! I digressed. The dude is the president of the country I live in. Did he really say that?
It's different than being able to play the piano. I see folks even more dependent on their electronic devices in your scenario, and that scares the crap out of me. Would we be able to trust the translations? I don't think our being more productive would be a gain for humanity. We are all producing at madcap rates already.