The English Spelling Society is an international organisation, based in the United Kingdom. It was founded in 1908 as the Simplified Spelling Society and celebrated its Centenary Conference at Coventry University in June 2008. Its aims are to raise awareness of the problems caused by the irregularity of English spelling, and to seek remedies to improve literacy, including spelling reform. The Society publishes leaflets, newsletters, journals, books and bulletins. Its spokespersons feature regularly on TV, radio and in print.
The Society considers that the fundamental justification for any changes to traditional English spelling is that it will improve literacy and reduce learning costs. In addition to being faster for children and foreign students to learn, reform must not place unnecessary obstacles in the way of those already familiar with traditional spelling.
Read more about English Spelling Society: Aims, Specific Reform Systems, Spelling Bee Protests, Structure
Famous quotes containing the words english, spelling and/or society:
“We admire Chaucer for his sturdy English wit.... But though it is full of good sense and humanity, it is not transcendent poetry. For picturesque description of persons it is, perhaps, without a parallel in English poetry; yet it is essentially humorous, as the loftiest genius never is.”
—Henry David Thoreau (1817–1862)
“As to spelling the very frequent word though with six letters instead of two, it is impossible to discuss it, as it is outside the range of common sanity. In comparison such a monstrosity as phlegm for flem is merely disgusting.”
—George Bernard Shaw (1856–1950)
“I am not what is called a civilized man, professor. I have done with society for reasons that seem good to me. Therefore I do not obey its laws.”
—Earl Felton, and Richard Fleischer. Captain Nemo (James Mason)