"The Language Instinct: How the Mind Creates Language," authored by Steven Pinker, explores the innate ability humans have for language. Pinker argues that language is not simply a learned behavior but rather a fundamental aspect of human cognition. He suggests that the capacity for language is hardwired into our brains, similar to other instincts that govern behavior in different species.
The book delves into various aspects of language, including grammar, vocabulary, and the ability to understand and produce sentences. Pinker illustrates complex linguistic concepts with accessible examples, making the science of language approachable for readers. He also discusses the implications of linguistic capabilities for understanding the human mind and highlights the differences between language and other forms of communication found in the animal kingdom.
Pinker emphasizes that the evolution of language is a significant element of human development. By analyzing language acquisition in children and the universal grammar theory, he paints a comprehensive picture of how humans develop linguistic skills. Overall, "The Language Instinct" presents a compelling argument for understanding language as an innate human function, enriching our knowledge of psychology and linguistics.
More »
Today Birthdays
1953 -
Tim Gunn
1805 -
Alexis de Tocqueville
1883 -
Benito Mussolini
1878 -
Don Marquis
1966 -
Martina McBride
1953 -
Ken Burns
1869 -
Booth Tarkington
1914 -
Irwin Corey
1974 -
Gail Simone
1930 -
Paul Taylor
1906 -
Diana Vreeland
1963 -
Caroline Paul
1953 -
Geddy Lee
1925 -
Ted Lindsay
1974 -
Josh Radnor
1938 -
Peter Jennings
1963 -
Alexandra Paul
1987 -
Genesis Rodriguez
1977 -
Danger Mouse
1942 -
George Kaiser
1956 -
Ronnie Musgrove
1993 -
Dak Prescott
1952 -
Patrick Soon-Shiong
1953 -
Patti Scialfa
1959 -
Sanjay Dutt
1951 -
Samuel J. Palmisano
1981 -
Fernando Alonso
1989 -
Marlen Esparza