The Economist Logo

The Evolution of Language: Babel or babble?

Evolution of language: it’s commonly assumed that languages all inevitably share the same roots. However, research is now indicating that this may not be the case. New research findings have highlighted a distinct lack of correlation with regard to grammatical features between language families, and very few within language family’s as well. Could it be that nurture has played a significantly greater part in the formation of language than what most have believed? Should the concept of a “language organ” be granted little more weight? And how long will it be before Dr Chomsky fires responses with all the fervor one can confidently expect?

To read more, click here.

Similar Posts