Latin Research Paper

Rather than part of an elitist agenda, the modern use of Latin is a reflection of pride and centuries of tradition. Whether used in a court of law or for other academic or scientific purposes, Latin remains useful. It allows for the legal language to be richer and more flexible and continues to play many roles in the legal system. Similarly, in scientific fields, Latin provides a precise and concise way of sorting the genus and species of living organism, with permanence.
Although Latin is considered the language of scholars and intellectuals, the language is deeply ingrained in the history of most Western countries. In the American legal system, some concepts of the modern law originated from Anglo-Saxons, Romans or Normans, and the language
From the 15th to 17th century, scientific papers would be published in the author’s native language, as well as in Latin. Latin became an international language which gave anyone equal use and control of it, yet it was not any country’s native tongue. Latin provided a common ground for academics. However, by the scientific revolution in the 17th and 18th century, most scientists favored their own languages. In 1610, Galileo published Sidereus Nuncius, his discoveries on the moons of Jupiter, in Latin. However, his later major works were in Italian, in order to reach a more local audience for patronage and support. Similarly, Newton’s Principia (1687) was published in Latin, but his Opticks of 1704 in English. Later, during the early 19th century, scientist abandoned Latin and started publishing in either German, French, or Italian. Although publishing entire academic texts in Latin is no longer possible, as some terms are too technical to be translated, this does not mean the usage of Latin is useless. Pairing binomial nomenclature, the practice of giving a species of living organism an epithet for the genus and species, with Latin is still incredibly useful. Having a ‘dead language’ allows for word permanence. Pop culture changes and evolves, and with it, can the meanings and connotations of words, making a living language subject to confusion. When science calls for
While Latin can be used for elitist purposes, it remains an important historical tradition. It is the vernacular of ancient academic texts and modern scientific terminology and carries a heavy significance in most scholarly fields. The legal system uses Latin to separate lawyers from non-lawyers, but also to express their thoughts and ideas clearly. Clearly, Latin is useful in modern society. Therefore, the use of it cannot be simply for an elitist