Language, Thought, and Society: Key Questions

Thought and Language: Speaking as We Think

We maintain that you first think and then externalize the inner thoughts through language, i.e., that there is a thought prior to language which is then channeled linguistically.

Thinking as We Talk: Language Dependence

This affirms the dependence of our thinking on our language.

Thought to Speech: Flawed Yet Exuberant?

Flawed (or Deficient) -> In expressing our thoughts orally, nuances are lost.

Exuberant (or Rich) -> Because we can realize new nuances.

Beyond Reflection: Other Language Functions

With language, we reflect ourselves, communicate with others, and also try to change the thinking and behavior of others.

Origin of Jargon and Slang

Each society has its language, i.e., a specific way of using language. Language reflects the social world in which it is used. This is the origin of jargon or slang; they are special languages used by different social groups, either due to professional or other social relations.

Language as a Social Integration Element

Yes, society marginalizes those who do not speak a particular language. This happens, for example, with computer languages or other specialized languages, whose ignorance prevents us from enjoying all the benefits that society seemingly offers.

Social Media, Language, and Society

Information and entertainment functions, which can sometimes become a source of manipulation.

Polysemy and Ambiguity in Language Use

Polysemy and ambiguity characterize language. This is not a disadvantage, as it allows for economy in its use. If each word had to refer to only one thing, language would be infinite and its use impossible. However, polysemy and ambiguity also facilitate the use of language to deceive, seduce, or manipulate. Language is a rich and wonderful tool that allows for the creation of many possibilities as well as the emergence of lies.

Rhetoric: Definition and Purpose

The discipline dedicated to the use of language is rhetoric, which may be defined as the art of speaking well, using arguments to persuade and convince others.

How Rhetoric Seeks Truth

Rhetoric is the search for reasonable and probable grounds, beyond dogmatism and skepticism. Rhetoric seeks the truth with arguments.

Focus of Sophistry

It is concerned with satisfying the audience, focusing only on the effect of discourse rather than the truth being transmitted.