Researcher challenges the theory that multilingualism is beneficial for longevity

At the same time, countries with low levels of multilingualism, such as Bulgaria and Romania, lag behind in life expectancy by almost seven years (75.8 and 76.3 years, respectively). Hernandez argues that such a huge difference is unlikely to be explained by language skills. A more logical explanation (the principle of saving thinking) is structural factors: access to first-class medicine, high-quality nutrition in childhood, safety at work, and low levels of chronic stress.

The professor cites Japan as a striking counterexample. This is a predominantly monolingual society that nevertheless has an exceptional life expectancy of 84.5 years. Japan’s success is attributed to low social inequality, a healthy diet, and a robust universal healthcare system, rather than the acquisition of foreign languages.

Hernandez emphasizes that there is a dangerous temptation in modern science to propose individual behavioral habits—learning a language, solving crosswords, or taking supplements—as solutions to problems that are actually fundamental and systemic in nature. In his opinion, promoting such ideas as clinical measures to combat aging could undermine public trust in science and divert attention from truly important issues, such as ensuring economic stability and equal access to healthcare.

The scientist concludes that learning languages is a valuable cultural enrichment that broadens horizons and connects people, but it should not be seen as a substitute for the structural resources necessary for a long and healthy life.