Learn Languages with Steve Kaufmann How to decide which language to learn
Jul 24, 2025
Discover how personal interests and cultural heritage shape our language choices. The speaker reflects on their travels, revealing the fascinating decline and revival of languages like Irish Gaelic. Motivation is emphasized as a key factor in successful language learning. Tune in for insights that make choosing a language more than just a pragmatic decision!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Decline of Gaelic Languages
- Steve Kaufmann observed the decline of Irish Gaelic speakers to nearly a curiosity on his trip to Ireland.
- Despite Gaelic signs, he rarely heard it spoken and noted significant decline in Scotland as well.
Language Value Is Personal
- The value of a language depends on personal commitment and interest rather than metrics like number of speakers.
- All languages can be equally valuable if the learner attaches importance to them.
Language Market Value Isn't Everything
- While English is widely practical, Steve Kaufmann learned languages with fewer speakers driven by personal reasons.
- A language's market value and number of speakers aren't the sole determinants of its worth to an individual.