Linguistic compromise on Chinese writing

While I agree with the notion that traditional Chinese characters are more authentic as a product of constant evolution over at least 5,000 years and need to be preserved, 

they are justifiably attacked for being too complicated to learn and consequently labelled as an obstacle to literacy. 

On the other hand, simplified characters are rightfully criticised as not containing the roots of original characters due to its occasional oversimplification among other complaints.

Thus, in recognition of the pros & cons of both writing systems, perhaps simplified characters should be allowed in any informal setting (sms, magazines, pop culture, etc) while only traditional characters should be allowed in formal classroom learning, newspaper, television, etc. (For new media such as the Internet, both systems should be available with a click of the mouse).

While this proposal may sound idealistic and far from being a best-of-both-worlds solution, at least it would serve as a compromise for defenders of both systems.  At the very least, it would enable Chinese from various origins to communicate more easily and more effectively.  After all, isn’t that what language is all about?

Sopida Zheng

Hat yai