/LC.GIF&client=easterncarolinaedu)
The language myth : why language is not an instinct / Vyvyan Evans.
| Author/creator | Evans, Vyvyan author. |
| Format | Book |
| Publication | Cambridge, United Kingdom ; New York : Cambridge University Press, 2014. |
| Description | xi, 304 pages ; 22 cm |
| Subjects |
| Contents | 1. Language and mind rethought -- 2. Is human language unrelated to animal communication systems -- 3. Are there language universals -- 4. Is language innate -- 5. Is language a distinct module in the mind? -- 6. Is there a universal Mentalese? -- 7. Is thought independent of language? -- 8. Language and mind regained. |
| Abstract | "Language is central to our lives, the cultural tool that arguably sets us apart from other species. Some scientists have argued that language is innate, a type of unique human 'instinct' pre-programmed in us from birth. In this book, Vyvyan Evans argues that this received wisdom is, in fact, a myth. Debunking the notion of a language 'instinct', Evans demonstrates that language is related to other animal forms of communication; that languages exhibit staggering diversity; that we learn our mother tongue drawing on general properties and abilities of the human mind, rather than an inborn 'universal' grammar; and that, ultimately, language and the mind reflect and draw upon the way we interact with others in the world. Compellingly written and drawing on cutting-edge research, The Language Myth sets out a forceful alternative to the received wisdom, showing how language and the mind really work"-- Provided by publisher. |
| Bibliography note | Includes bibliographical references (pages 274-300) and index. |
| LCCN | 2014014932 |
| ISBN | 9781107619753 (Paperback) |
| ISBN | 1107619750 (Paperback) |
| ISBN | 9781107043961 (Hardback) |
| ISBN | 1107043964 (Hardback) |
| Standard identifier# | 40024121949 |
Availability
| Library | Location | Call Number | Status | Item Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joyner | General Stacks | P204 .E88 2014 | ✔ Available | Place Hold |