The Languages section analyzes language from an evolutionary, developmental, and memetic perspective. In this section possible scenarios for the evolution of language are analyzed, followed by a discussion of language as it relates to the individual, followed by an examination of language in relationship to culture and to memes. The concepts developed by Steven Pinker, a cognitive scientist, are important in this section.

Languages Contents

The Evolution of Language: You will be introduced to a number of theories regarding the evolution of the human capacity for communication through language.

The Grammar Module: Study in further detail a concept developed by Steven Pinker, and examine two different mental modules that come into play in the production of language.

Language Acquisition: You will study the mechanisms and stages of language acquisition, as well as the effects of linguistic plasticity.

Language and the Brain: Study the relationship between language impairments and brain lesions - a common method used by cognitive scientists and neuroscientists to determine function of brain areas.

Language and Culture: You can examine the multifaceted relationships between language and culture, and analyze their common bond of memetic influence.

The Development of Writing: Study a specific aspect of language - written communication - and its variations and origins.

Words and Languages: Learn the actual definition of a word, the relationship of words and languages, the use of words to analyze linguistic evolution, and the status of some words as memes in their own right.

Languages and Memes: Complete your study of languages by relating language to memes and memeplexes and their evolution.

Languages Quiz: Test yourself and your knowledge of the language concepts in this section by taking our quiz!