The text discusses the importance of bilingualism, especially in the context of international institutions like the European Parliament. It argues that true bilingualism goes beyond basic language skills and requires deep cultural understanding and effortless switching between languages. The author advocates for bilingual schools as a solution to achieve this level of language proficiency.
• Bilingualism is defined as the ability to seamlessly switch between two languages and cultures
• Many people around the world are bilingual, not just geniuses or millionaires
• International institutions like the European Parliament require more than just translation services
• Bilingual education from a young age is proposed as the best way to develop true bilingualism
• The author suggests establishing bilingual schools across Britain to address this need
Highlight: "One of the acid tests of bi-lingualism is the ability to tell a joke and make people laugh, in the non-native language."