The Relationship Between Language and Thought: Toward a Holistic Linguistic Model of Cognition
Open Access
- Author:
- Noggle, Joni
- Area of Honors:
- Philosophy
- Degree:
- Bachelor of Arts
- Document Type:
- Thesis
- Thesis Supervisors:
- Vincent M Colapietro, Thesis Supervisor
Vincent M Colapietro, Thesis Honors Advisor
John Philip Christman, Faculty Reader
Vincent M Colapietro, Thesis Supervisor - Keywords:
- Language
thought
linguistic relativity
philosophy - Abstract:
- This work explores the relationship between language and thought. It begins with an introduction of the history of the subject matter, laying out a divide in the schools of thought pertaining to the language-thought interaction. The basic tenets of both sides of the divide are outlined, following the history of various hypotheses and the intersection of advances in cognitive science. An exploration of the theories asserting a cognitive priority follows. The discussion draws upon the utilitarian aspect of language, citing examples of spontaneous pre-linguistic cognition and empirical studies. Theories that assert a linguistic priority over thought (historically characterized by the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis) are also examined, with attention given to distinctions between linguistic determinism and linguistic relativity. Particular attention is given to theories focusing on linguistic relativity, with specific theories being outlined in detail. Following an exploration of both interpretations of the language-thought relationship, points of contention are raised and accounted for with the articulation of a holistic linguistic model of cognition. A working definition of language is given, and a theory of mind is presented as the backdrop for language-thought interactions. This dynamic model of language, thought, and the mind, attempts to account for and incorporate the wide diversity of linguistic and cognitive capabilities.