Arguments for declining standards:
* Informal language: The rise of social media and texting has led to a greater prevalence of informal language, slang, and abbreviations, which some perceive as a lowering of standards.
* Grammar and punctuation: Misuse of grammar and punctuation is often cited as evidence of declining standards. This can be attributed to a lack of formal education, but also to changing norms and the rapid evolution of language.
* Vocabulary: Some argue that a declining vocabulary is contributing to a "dumbing down" of English. While it's true that specialized vocabularies are less prevalent in everyday conversation, this doesn't necessarily mean a decline in overall language skills.
* Misinformation and "fake news": The proliferation of misinformation and "fake news" online can be seen as a symptom of declining communication standards. This, however, is not necessarily a reflection on the language itself, but rather the way it's used and interpreted.
Arguments against declining standards:
* Evolution of language: Language is constantly evolving, and what might be seen as a "decline" in standards is simply a reflection of these changes.
* Context and audience: The context and audience significantly affect language choices. What might be considered "informal" in one situation could be perfectly appropriate in another.
* Focus on communication: The focus on clear and effective communication should be the ultimate goal, not adhering to rigid rules of grammar.
* Globalized English: English is a global language, and its variations are natural. Focusing on "correctness" can ignore the richness and diversity of its usage worldwide.
Instead of focusing on "decline," consider these points:
* Standards are subjective: There is no objective standard of "good" English. What's considered correct or acceptable varies across regions, cultures, and generations.
* Literacy is crucial: While language evolves, a strong foundation in grammar, vocabulary, and writing is still essential for effective communication.
* Critical thinking and media literacy: In an age of misinformation, being able to critically analyze and evaluate information is crucial.
* Open-mindedness and respect for diversity: Recognizing and respecting the diverse ways English is used around the world fosters a more inclusive and understanding approach to language.
Ultimately, whether English standards are "dropping" is debatable. What's more important is promoting clear and effective communication, embracing the diversity of the language, and fostering critical thinking skills.