Globalisation, L2 Identity, and Morality

Globalisation exerts profound influences on second language (L2) learning. L2 identity is no exception and deserves special attention, given the role of English as a lingua franca across the world and its key roles in language learning. This chapter continues the discussions of Chapter 3 and examines how globalisation influences the L2 identity of learners from a Hegelian perspective. An evaluation of literature on L2 identity indicates that despite a diversity of theoretical perspectives adopted for research and discussions to date, there has been a lack of attention given to morality, especially the duties to others and their actualisation. From a Hegelian perspective, researching and strengthening L2 identity from the cognitive, social, and instrumental perspectives are inadequate for generating guidance for L2 learners to thrive or at least function properly in the contemporary globalised world. This is because globalisation poses unprecedented challenges to morality, as the mingling of diverse cultures around the globe causes tensions in morality as concluded in Chapters 2 and 3 . This paper proposes that morality in Hegelian philosophy be incorporated into research, theoretical development, and implementation of L2 identity. This, from a Hegelian perspective, can facilitate consciousness to declare its conviction, close the gaps and resolve contradictions between moral conscience and the moral reality L2 learners face.