A way of knowing

•It is rule-governed.•It is intended.

•It is creative and open-ended.

Language is a sub-set of communication,

but not all communication is

language.

Language is symbolic.

Language enables us to communicate

new information, to learn about people

and places and ideas we have never

encountered before…

There is an element of translation inevery communication.

A sends a message to B.B receives the message and interprets it.

Misunderstanding takes place.

Why is it so difficult to communicate effectively?

Some of the reasons…

Most of the message we communicate is non-verbal.

The words we use are vague, imprecise, and can be interpreted in different ways.

We may have a “hidden agenda” that is not mutually understood.

In this community, we all have different language histories and experiences – verbal and non-verbal! This contributes to the “problem” of communication.

Problems of meaning

Language changing

Propaganda and manipulation through language

Problems of meaningVagueness

Ambiguity

Secondary meaning

Metaphor

Irony

Because sometimes it matters.

•Context•Untranslatable words

•Idioms

Criteria for effective translation:

Changing Language

Language reflects

our changing

world.

•Gender issues•Political correctness•Technology•Slang•International travel•Internet + media

Language is used toinfluence

andpersuade.

Weasel Words

“many”“should”

“probably”

Grammar

“Sebastian broke my leg.”

“My leg broke.”

Revealing and Concealing

•Euphemisms: “hygiene technician”

•David Lega

Propaganda

Some questions for discussion in TOK groups:

•How does language influence your perception/ emotion / reason?•Is mathematics a language?•What kinds of texts are easiest to translate? Which are the most difficult?•How can you make sure you have understood a message that is conveyed to you?•What arguments are there for and against political correctness?•What are the problems of language for someone with autism/Asperger’s syndrome?