JohnBoy2000
Bluelighter
- Joined
- May 11, 2016
- Messages
- 2,596
I personally contend it's because language is how we rationalize the world around us, it's the primary means by which we think and thus function cognitively as humans.
Thus language itself = the base of cognition.
Our cognitive function and resultant ability to cultivate our environment = what distinguishes us amongst other earthly organisms.
Opinions?
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One possible point of view on this is, as organisms, as all organisms are - we're very sexually driven.
But to maintain civilization and good behavior, we must keep that sexual drive moderated so that it's healthy, functional and productive.
This requires sound cognitive intervention.
I believe the form this discipline takes = through words, self thought/rationalization etc. (as oppose to visualization, which other organisms can do but lack that discipline/refinement over sexual behaviour).
Perhaps this was the meaning of the title statement?
To make us "human", progressive, controlled, civilized, healthy and functional - language = the core defining means to do this.
??
i.e. our "self instruction"/discipline in demanding situations = mediated through language.
As visuals or instinct alone (as with other organisms) = insufficient to accomplish this.