LING 102

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School

University of Hawaii *

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Course

102

Subject

Linguistics

Date

Apr 3, 2024

Type

docx

Pages

3

Uploaded by amyshell on coursehero.com

Summary of Carl Polley's "What is Language?" The scientific study of language, as described by Carl Polley, demonstrates the diverse and nuanced character of linguistic systems. It surprises me that language, which is frequently seen as an art form or a natural human skill, can be evaluated and comprehended using scientific principles. This analytical method enables us to reveal the fundamental structures and functions of language, changing what may be viewed as an intuitive and organic skill into a field of research and innovation. Two questions that emerge from this perspective are: How do the physical structures of the brain influence language development and usage? And, how does language evolve within a community or society? The first question delves into the neurolinguistic aspect of language. It's intriguing to consider how the intricate structures in our brains not only facilitate but also limit and shape our language capabilities. Polley touches upon this in the context of the evolution of language, mentioning how our anatomical features like the lowered larynx have been crucial in language development (Polley, 2018, p. 6). However, the question extends beyond the physical to the cognitive: How do different areas of the brain collaborate to produce and comprehend language? Moreover, how do these interactions and the brain's plasticity influence language acquisition in children compared to adults? Understanding this could have profound implications for both education and cognitive therapy.
The second question is about sociolinguistics and the evolution of language. Polley observes that language is not static, but changes, influenced by social interactions and cultural customs. (Polley, 2018, p. 4). This evolution raises questions about the forces that drive linguistic changes. For instance, how do migration, technological advancement, and intercultural interactions influence the development of new dialects or languages? Furthermore, in a rapidly globalizing world, what are the implications for minority languages and dialects? Understanding these dynamics can offer insights into cultural preservation and the impacts of globalization on linguistic diversity. These questions, inspired by Polley's scientific approach to language, highlight the multidisciplinary nature of linguistic studies. They blend elements of neuroscience, psychology, sociology, and anthropology, demonstrating that the study of language can be as complex and varied as language itself. The scientific study of language not only also brings forth a multifaceted analysis of human communication. It links the arts and sciences by exposing language as a made up of aspects from human biology, thought, culture, and society. This perspective enables us to value language not only as a tool for communication but also as an essential component of our human identity.
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