The intersection of globalization and linguistic diversity: The TED Translators initiative

This thesis investigates how globalization reshapes linguistic diversity by reinforcing fluid yet persistent hierarchies among languages. Rather than functioning as a neutral process of cultural exchange, globalization, driven by capitalist structures and accelerated by rapid technological expansion, creates conditions in which certain languages gain symbolic and economic capital while others are marginalized. The emergence and reinforcement of global linguistic hierarchies generates specific spaces of inclusion and exclusion. Within this context, the TED Translators program is used as a case study to analyze the effectiveness of community-driven translation initiatives in representing linguistic diversity, serving as a large-scale example of digitally mediated volunteer localization program. The study explores patterns of language homogenization and linguistic hierarchy, as well as the functionality of translation practices in a globalizing world characterized by stratified and evolving language dynamics. Keywords: globalization, glocalization, language homogenization, linguistic diversity, linguistic hierarchy.