Language as a window into human nature
Language is not just a common code. It's a window into how our mind works
Steven Pinker
American cognitive psychologist and author, investigating language, mind, and human nature through psycholinguistics.
All moments: Steven Pinker
- Universal grammar — Steven Pinker
All languages are variations on a theme. Every human brain contains universal grammar
- Syntax and meaning — Steven Pinker
Syntax transforms a finite set of words into infinite meanings. That's the magic of language
- Linguistics and the brain — Steven Pinker
Through language we can understand how the brain works. Grammar is a fingerprint of our thinking
- Human nature and progress — Steven Pinker
Human nature is not evil. We are not innately aggressive. Culture and science can make us better
- The evolution of language — Steven Pinker
Language evolved because it gave a survival advantage. It allows us to transmit ideas
- Language and thought — Steven Pinker
Language shapes thought but doesn't determine it. We are free to change our words, and thus our thoughts
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