How Language Began

Name: How Language Began
Brand: Allen & Unwin
SKU: 9781781253939
Price: 32.99 NZD
Availability: InStock

The Story of Humanity’s Greatest Invention

By Daniel Everett

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( 1,020 ratings, 161 reviews)

Summary

In How Language Began, Daniel Everett challenges the conventional view that language originated 150,000 years ago with Homo sapiens and the idea of a hardwired 'language instinct'. Combining evidence from linguistics, archaeology, biology, anthropology and neuroscience, Everett argues that Homo erectus had the necessary biological and cognitive tools for speech as far back as 1.5 million years ago. Their cultural achievements, such as building ocean-going boats, strongly suggest they had some form of language. The book offers fresh perspectives on language, culture and what it means to be human, enriched with engaging anecdotes.
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Format: Paperback / softback

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How Language Began

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book is ideal for readers fascinated by the origins of language, human evolution and cultural anthropology, as well as linguists and students seeking a fresh, interdisciplinary approach beyond traditional theories. It appeals to thoughtful general readers who enjoy challenging, well-argued works blending science and narrative.

A revolutionary account of the origins of language from one of the world's best known and most influential linguists.

A revolutionary account of the origins of language from one of the world's best known and most influential linguists

Description

In his groundbreaking new book, Daniel Everett seeks answers to questions that have perplexed thinkers from Plato to Chomsky: when and how did language begin? What is it? And what is it for?

Daniel Everett confounds the conventional wisdom that language originated with Homo sapiens 150,000 years ago and that we have a 'language instinct'. Drawing on evidence from a wide range of fields, including linguistics, archaeology, biology, anthropology, and neuroscience, he shows that our ancient ancestors, Homo erectus, had the biological and mental equipment for speech one and a half million years ago, and that their cultural and technological achievements (including building ocean-going boats) make it overwhelmingly likely they spoke some kind of language.

How Language Began sheds new light on language and culture and what it means to be human. As always, Daniel Everett spices his account with incident and anecdote. His book is convincing, arresting, and entertaining.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Praised for its clarity and originality, How Language Began has been called a classic by Edward O. Wilson and lauded by critics across major publications. Oliver Kamm of the Times highlights its clear explanation of complex ideas, Harry Ritchie of the Spectator describes the book as ambitious and enthralling, while Prospect and Kirkus Reviews commend its importance, fascination and engaging style. It is recognised as a major contribution to scholarship and accessible to general readers interested in language and human origins.

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781781253939

Publisher: Profile Books Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 06 September 2018

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Profile Books Ltd

Edition: Main

Illustration: c. 60 half-tone and line printed in text

Audience: General / adult, Tertiary education, Professional and scholarly

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 26.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 240g

Pages: 352

Collections

Daniel Everett Education & Reference Non-Fiction

About the Author

Daniel Everett worked in the Amazon jungles of Brazil for over 30 years, among more than a dozen different tribal groups. He has published extensively on language and culture and is one of the world's most influential thinkers in both fields. His Don't Sleep, There Are Snakes was selected by Blackwell's bookstores as one of the best of 2009, was an 'editor's choice' of the Sunday Times and has been the subject of a film and a play. He is currently Dean of Arts and Sciences at Bentley University in Waltham, Massachusetts.