02329cam a22003133u 4500 12629 UtSlPG 20260610133312.0 m cr n 260607r2004||||utu|||||o|||||||||||||| d UtSlPG en iso639-1 P Sapir, Edward, 1884-1939 Language: An Introduction to the Study of Speech Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg, 2004 1 online resource : multiple file formats text txt rdacontent computer c rdamedia online resource cr rdacarrier Wikipedia page about this book: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Language:_An_Introduction_to_the_Study_of_Speech Release date is 2004-06-01 Produced by Juliet Sutherland, Ben Beasley and PG Distributed Proofreaders "Language: An Introduction to the Study of Speech" by Edward Sapir is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The work provides a comprehensive exploration of language, emphasizing its nature as a cultural phenomenon rather than a biological instinct. Sapir aims to describe language's variability and its relationship with fundamental human interests like thought, culture, and art, laying a foundational perspective for both linguistic students and the general public. The opening of the book establishes its purpose and framework, as Sapir outlines his view that language is a culturally learned and variable system of symbols for communication, distinct from instinctive vocal expressions. He argues against theories that posit language's origins in interjections or sound imitation, asserting that language is primarily a human construct shaped by social traditions. Sapir contrasts language acquisition with the biological process of learning to walk, highlighting the critical role of societal interaction in developing linguistic abilities. He sets the stage for a deeper investigation into language's structures, elements, and their psychological and cultural implications as the book progresses. (This is an automatically generated summary.) Original publication data not identified Language and languages https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/12629 54047 54047