Migration and (Loss of) Language—or about the Problems of Loneliness Caused by Migration and the Implications for Intercultural Dialogue Today

Abstract

Migration and language are closely interrelated fields that have not been sufficiently investigated. In particular, the state of speechlessness caused by migration has so far received little philosophical attention. Hence, this article explores speechlessness due to migration based on a dialectical human existence (Dasein). The condition of loss of language is philosophically significant because it shows who we are and who we can become through migration. It also unveils the individual and his or her development, as well as the condition of the receiving societies. The loss of language is the seismograph of human existence.

Keywords

• intercultural philosophy
• social philosophy
• migration
• Watsuji
• Ningen
• language