Why study Latin?

Now there’s an academic debate for the ages. How many of us studied Latin? How many of us HAD TO study Latin? How many students today study Latin? What would it be like if students studied Latin? Research has shown that secondary students who study Latin score higher on their SAT’s. Specifically, Latin improved English comprehension scores and it was shown to sharpen language skills in general.

Let’s have fun with this, and let me suggest that we are somewhat familiar with Latin by our common use of phrases, abbreviations and mottos. Law and medicine are full of Latin phrases, expression and abbreviations. Here are some abbreviations you probably know.

A.D. (anno domini) – in the year of the Lord
A.M. (ante meridiem) – before midday
Etc. (et cetera) – and the rest, and so forth
Lb. (libra) – pound
Rx (recipe) – take

Here are several common Latin phrases:

In absentia – in one’s absence
Semper fidelis – always faithful
Mea culpa – through my fault
Summa cum laude – with highest honor
E plaribus unum – out of many, one.
Carpe Diem – seize the day

Latin phrases or mottos are often used as a guiding principle of a particular group or organization. They are commonly used by academic institutions. Consider these.

Mens et manus – Mind and hand (M.I.T.)
Magnus est veritas – Great is the truth (U. of Miami)
Veritas et virtus – Truth and Virtue (U. of Pittsburgh)
Ut Prosim – That I may serve (Virginia Tech)

(I’m particularly fond of one of these from my
“alma mater” – kind mother)

I believe each motto coveys an element of prestige, an element of scholarly awareness. I find them interesting. Why do we use Latin phrases? Should we just say what we mean?
Why don’t we have a Latin motto for TCL?

Latin takes a slogan or motto and transforms it to make it sound important or meaningful. It’s not really catchy, but rather classy. Is there a prestige value in a slogan if it is stated in Latin?

TCL’s slogan (not moto) is The wave of the future. We don’t use a Latin translation. Should we?

The power or force of a wave and the cleansing opportunities it holds for our future. Perhaps we don’t need a Latin phrase. Or do we?

Culture and language are important. Over time, Latin remained unchanged. It is the root language. Perhaps that is why we need to study it, appreciate it, and marvel in its values.

If you care to explore this topic further, consider this link:
http://www.yuni.com/library/latin.html

P.S. (post scriptum) – written after. Ipsa scientia potestas est. Check it out.

(To TCL’s Presidential Ambassadors, thanks for letting me know you read my blog. Excelsior.)

TCL