The Language Instinct Study Questions & Topics for Discussion

The Language Instinct Topics for Discussion

Discuss the controversial theory that language is an instinct. Do you agree or disagree with Pinker's samples?

Discuss Chomsky's theory of Universal Grammar.

If a person cannot understand a language in which people "jabber," how it is possible to know if they have words for specific items such as trees or sky?

Compare and contrast Chomsky's and Pinker's theories on how language is learned.

Explain how syntax is affected by language usage and its various translations. Give examples.

What are the main differences between a natural language and a computer language?

Do you agree or disagree that language is formed by thoughts; thoughts are not formed by language?