Languages of the World. This course is intended for those who are curious about human language but who have no formal training in linguistics. We will also examine selected languages from different parts of the world to show the basic components of a language and how linguists proceed to find out the structures of a new language. The grade will be based on weekly problem sets and two short papers.
Language is a central concern of humankind and with good reason.
As the conduit for most communicative and expressive needs as well as other tasks, it pervades virtually every aspect of human existence. Appreciating and being able to explain the range of variety of spoken and written language among various peoples of the world is an essential key to understanding human culture and diversity. This course systematically addresses many of the questions which most fascinate us about language, thus widening our intercultural horizons and enhancing our sophistication about our own language and culture. It therefore serves those who wish to learn about both our own and other societies, particular languages or regions of the world, and the nature of the human mind. Introduction to Linguistics.