Xenolinguistics: Towards a Science of Extraterrestrial Language

Xenolinguistics explores non-human, non-Earthbound language by bringing together experts from various fields. The 18 chapters examine human language and animal communication systems to provide hypotheses about potential non-Earth intelligence. The volume clarifies what is known and unknown, presents speculative arguments, and highlights the benefits of a cross-disciplinary investigation. It will be of interest to researchers and students in non-human communication, astrobiology, and language invention.

Format: Hardback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 06 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Xenolinguistics is a field that brings together biologists, anthropologists, linguists, and other experts specializing in language and communication to explore the potential existence of non-human, non-Earthbound languages. The 18 chapters in this volume examine what is currently known about human language and animal communication systems, providing reasonable hypotheses about what we might encounter if we encounter non-Earth intelligence.

This volume serves as a valuable resource for scholars seeking to clarify what is and is not known about human language and animal communication systems. It presents speculative arguments as a philosophical exercise to help define the boundaries of what our current science can tell us about non-speculative areas of investigation. By integrating knowledge from various disciplines, the book offers readers a clearer understanding of how our knowledge about language is better informed through a cross-disciplinary investigation.

Furthermore, it provides insights into future avenues of research on language, making it an essential read for researchers and students interested in non-human communication, astrobiology, and language invention. The chapter authors, who include renowned scholars such as Noam Chomsky, Derek Ball, Denise Herzing, and Irene Pepperberg, contribute their expertise to this rich interdisciplinary collection.

Weight: 620g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032399607