Language study bridges gaps

My father, L. Clark Keating, earned his Ph.D. in Romance languages from Harvard University in 1935. This entailed the study of several languages all stemming from Latin. He also studied Greek and became proficient in German. During the Great Depression, Dad was one of two members of his class who managed to get a job in his field. Dad had passion for his work.

From 1960 to 1962, Dad was in charge of the Foreign Aid Mission in Education to Peru. His resume of experiences and publications is a long one — including chairman of the University of Kentucky’s Department of Modern Languages for awhile — and he took pleasure in teaching, thinking and writing always.

The study of foreign language helps bridge the gaps between cultures, each with its own philosophy, literature, history, music, art and cuisine. To communicate directly with others on our planet in their language increases understanding of other points of view, breaks down barriers and offers opportunities for service and exploration.

It is easy to understand why classical education included the study of foreign language. In studying a second language, one comes to see one’s own language and culture in a new light. While I was disappointed that our governor would discount the study of French, it will not discourage the intellectually curious who have the passion. I will wait to see what our governor’s passion will do for Kentucky.

This story was originally published February 16, 2016 at 8:50 PM with the headline "Language study bridges gaps."