While other species have ways of communicating with each other, humans

are unique in how well we’ve mastered language. Like other species, we
have body language, but language – whether it’s spoken, written, or signed
– is the most effective method of communication between people. It allows
us to express our feelings, thoughts, desires, and more. Without the ability
to communicate, we wouldn’t have the world we have today.

#2. Language encompasses the range of humanity

The sheer number of languages proves that while language itself is
universal among humans, there’s a lot of diversity, too. Everything from the
structure to the grammar to the inflection of different languages shows how
language evolves and shifts within certain contexts. Linguists go into their
field to not only learn about language, but about humanity.

#3. Language and culture are closely linked

It can be tricky to nail down what “culture” is exactly. Anthropologists define
it as an often shifting collection of beliefs, values, behaviors, and rules that
a group of people shares. Language is a vital part of culture because it’s
what people use to communicate aspects of culture (like rules and values).
People are introduced to their culture through language, which they learn at
a young age.

#4. Language can be weaponized

Because of language’s close connection to culture, there’s a long history of
certain groups controlling the language of other groups. The control of
language becomes a way to destroy a culture. Take Canada for example.
In the 19-century, the Canadian government began to force Indigenous
youth to assimilate. Through residential schools, young people learned
English. They were brutally punished if they spoke their own languages.
This was significant because many Indigenous groups depended on oral
histories. Losing language also severed the bond between the younger and
older generations. This destruction of culture through language occurred in
many other countries.

#5. Language can reveal significant differences in

people
If you’ve ever gotten into a political disagreement with someone, you’ll
know that it can sometimes feel like you’re speaking different languages. At
the University of Kent, researchers conducted some cross-cultural
studies to look at grammar in English, Arabic, and Polish. After analyzing
language patterns, they found that conservative presidents tended to use
more nouns than non-conservative politicians. Why does this matter? It’s
the difference between saying that “Mary writes” vs. “Mary is a writer.” With
the latter statement, we’re making a statement about Mary’s entire identity.
It’s who she is rather than what she does. The researchers said the use of
nouns indicated a need for stability and tradition, which are more valued by
conservatives.