About the book
“The most important—and provocative—anthropological fieldwork ever undertaken.” —Tom Wolfe
For years, the prevailing opinion among academics has been that language is embedded in our genes, existing as an innate and instinctual part of us. In this bold and provocative study, linguist Daniel Everett argues that, like other tools, language was invented by humans and can be reinvented or lost. He shows how the evolution of different language forms—that is, different grammar—reflects how language is influenced by human societies and experiences, and how it expresses their great variety. Combining anthropology, primatology, computer science, philosophy, linguistics, psychology, and his own pioneering research with the Amazonian Pirahã, and using insights from many different languages and cultures, Everett presents an unprecedented elucidation of this society-defined nature of language. In doing so, he also gives us a new understanding of how we think and who we are.
Editions of Language
- Hardcover
- ISBN 9780307378538
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780307473806
- EBook
- ISBN 9780307907028
Read an Excerpt
“The most important—and provocative—anthropological fieldwork ever undertaken.” —Tom Wolfe
For years, the prevailing opinion among academics has been that language is embedded in our genes, existing as an innate and instinctual part of us. In this bold and provocative study, linguist Daniel Everett argues that, like other tools, language was invented by humans and can be reinvented or lost. He shows how the evolution of different language forms—that is, different grammar—reflects how language is influenced by human societies and experiences, and how it expresses their great variety. Combining anthropology, primatology, computer science, philosophy, linguistics, psychology, and his own pioneering research with the Amazonian Pirahã, and using insights from many different languages and cultures, Everett presents an unprecedented elucidation of this society-defined nature of language. In doing so, he also gives us a new understanding of how we think and who we are.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Language about?
“The most important—and provocative—anthropological fieldwork ever undertaken.” —Tom Wolfe
For years, the prevailing opinion among academics has been that language is embedded in our genes, existing as an innate and instinctual part of us. In this bold and provocative study, linguist Daniel Everett argues that, like other tools, language was invented by humans and can be reinvented or lost. He shows how the evolution of different language forms—that is, different grammar—reflects how language is influenced by human societies and experiences, and how it expresses their great variety. Combining anthropology, primatology, computer science, philosophy, linguistics, psychology, and his own pioneering research with the Amazonian Pirahã, and using insights from many different languages and cultures, Everett presents an unprecedented elucidation of this society-defined nature of language. In doing so, he also gives us a new understanding of how we think and who we are.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Language?
Language and Linguistics > Linguistics > Sociolinguistics
Where can I read a sample of Language?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780307378538
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Language?
Daniel L. Everett
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Language is available as hardcover(ISBN 9780307378538) and paperback(ISBN 9780307473806) and ebook(ISBN 9780307907028)
Where can I buy Language online or support local independent bookshops?
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Where can I buy Language?