Understanding Language: An Introduction to Linguistics

Language is humanity's most distinctive and valuable faculty, and Roger Fowler's 1974 work is an introductory text for students and others concerned with human communication. It covers the main topics in linguistic description, the functions of language, its status in society, and its relation to the individual, with hundreds of examples from English and other languages. Suggestions for further reading are included, and the reader will acquire a substantial insight into contemporary linguistics.

Format: Hardback
Length: 286 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Language, widely acknowledged as humanity's most distinctive and invaluable faculty, is the subject of profound exploration in Roger Fowler's groundbreaking work, originally published in 1974. This comprehensive text serves as an introductory guide for students and individuals interested in human communication, presenting a clear and concise narrative while avoiding oversimplification of its intricate and complex nature.

In the opening chapters, Fowler delves into the profound influence of language on a man's social and psychological existence. He highlights the power of language to shape thoughts, emotions, and behavior, emphasizing its role in shaping individual identity and fostering social connections. The subsequent chapters provide an in-depth introduction to linguistics, the scientific study of language. Coverage spans key topics in linguistic description, including semantics, syntax, phonetics, and the functions of language in society and its relationship to the individual. The reader is encouraged to engage in advanced thinking within a contemporary and coherent linguistic theory, while special attention is given to the language learner, as the acquisition process unveils the inherent naturalness and complexity of language.

To support their arguments, the authors present a wealth of examples drawn from English and other languages, showcasing the richness and diversity of linguistic phenomena. Additionally, suggestions for further reading are provided, guiding the reader on a journey of exploration into contemporary linguistics, widely regarded as one of the most important and advanced human sciences. By following the arguments presented and engaging with the carefully curated bibliographical recommendations, the reader will gain a profound insight into the world of language, its evolution, and its profound impact on human communication and cognition.

Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032213118