Plot Summary

The Language Instinct

Steven Pinker
Guide cover placeholder

The Language Instinct

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1994

Book Brief

Steven Pinker

The Language Instinct

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1994
Book Details
Pages

576

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1990s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Language Instinct by Steven Pinker argues that humans possess an innate capacity for language, developed through evolution and evidenced by universal grammar structures and infant language acquisition. Pinker examines various studies, including those related to creole languages and the language abilities of hearing-impaired infants, to support his claim, while also challenging other theories like the Whorf-Sapir hypothesis.

Informative

Contemplative

Humorous

Challenging

Inspirational

Reviews & Readership

4.3

23,242 ratings

75%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Steven Pinker's The Language Instinct garners acclaim for its accessible, engaging writing and compelling argument that language is an innate human faculty. Critics praise its thorough research and clarity. However, some note that Pinker's dismissal of alternative theories oversimplifies the complexity of linguistic development. Overall, it is a thought-provoking and informative read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Language Instinct?

Readers who relish exploring the science of language and human cognition, akin to fans of Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari or The Selfish Gene by Richard Dawkins, will enjoy Steven Pinker's The Language Instinct. Ideal for those fascinated by linguistics, psychology, and evolutionary theory, seeking an engaging and informative read.

4.3

23,242 ratings

75%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

576

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

1990s

Publication Year

1994

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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