Human Language and Mathematics

This paper discuses that mathematics and human language are very similar in structure and form because they can both be broken down into ever smaller functional units.

1,520 words () | 2 sources | MLA | 2007 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper explains that regressions are preformed all the time in mathematics, which involve the division of numbers into innate and precise formal units; however, this is not a common practice in human language other than by theorists of deconstruction techniques. The author points out that the deconstruction of language, both verbal and non-verbal, has been a practice of linguists, philosophers and critical theorists for many years. The paper relates that verbal and non-verbal human communication is comprised of both signs and symbols,which together form a recognized code, or what laymen commonly refer to as a language. The author underscores that there is a significant problem in reaching some consensus on what constitutes a verbal sign or symbol because of significant confusion regarding both meaning and intent.

From the Paper:

"The solution to developing a better understanding of the relationship between sign and symbol in order to make the case for a deep similarity between human language and mathematics is to develop a more pragmatic framework within which to develop a more complete paradigm of the communicative process of verbal and non-verbal communication. Devlin does this when he speaks of the grammar generated, deep structure strings in the text of the "Language in the Mind". Some theorists say this need is a distinction that must be better developed between components of a sign to define as the signified and the signifier."

Sample of Sources Used:

Carroll, Lewis. "What the Tortoise Said to Achilles." Mind, 1895, pp.278-280.
Devlin, Keith. "Language in the Mind an Excerpt from "Goodbye Descartes."

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APA Citation:

Human Language and Mathematics (2012, January 15). Retrieved February 13, 2012, from http://www.academon.com/Comparison-Essay-Human-Language-and-Mathematics/101741