Abstract How much does our language influence what we can think and perceive? Indeed, does our language control what we can think and perceive? Conversely, do our thoughts and perceptions influence or even control our language? This paper explores these questions, and shows that - while it is difficult to say which comes first, as the process is clearly somewhat circular - it does seem that culture influences language more than language influences culture.
From the Paper "Theories such as the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, which combine linguistic relativity and linguistic determinism, are useful in that they remind us of the relationships between culture and language. For example, in Canada the many aboriginal languages have died - and in terms of this hypothesis, this is one of the important reasons why aboriginal cultures are under threat. On the other hand, in South Africa, despite decades of colonial rule and then apartheid, the indigenous languages, such as Zulu and Xhosa, remained very strong. This was reflected in the fact that the indigenous cultures remained very strong - so it is certainly possible that the survival of the languages enabled the survival of the cultures. "
Abstract This paper examines and compares the link made between language and racism in Robert B. Moore's article "Racism in the English Language" with the link made in Anne Ishii's article "English as a Second Language". The paper relates that Moore's article demonstrates that racism is so deeply rooted in culture that it can be easily identifiable upon the analysis of a few linguistic structures whereas for Ishii, the main problem is one of perception: Once the mainstream culture adopts a self-centered perception of the other cultures, racism begins to infiltrate into its structure. In other words, according to Ishii, English is in itself employed as an emblem of the 'mainstream civilization' and the other cultures are 'different' simply because they speak English with an accent or make frequent confusions about words and expressions.
From the Paper "If perceived from the inside of the Japanese culture, the European heritage would certainly seem extremely exotic or different. Thus, the main problem is that of perception: once the mainstream culture adopts a self-centered perception of the other cultures, racism begins to infiltrate into its structure. Ishii establishes her argument on a critique of the film 'Memoirs of a Geisha.' The paper pertinently observes that the film is literally unintelligible since it proposes absurdly to use a Chinese cast which speaks in deliberately erroneous English."
Tags: self-evident, mainstream', culture, perception, unnaturally, different
Abstract This paper analyzes Martin Heidegger's definition of art. The author claims that the origin of art is created from some form of activity on the part of the artist, whether it be creating a painting, song, sculpture or poetry. This paper focuses on Van Gogh's painting "A Pair of Shoes" and describes Heidegger's view of this particular work of art as well as his perception of the artist. The writer of this paper questions whether the artist creates the art or if art in fact creates the artist. This paper also discusses the significance of technology and nature in any work of art while describing Heidegger's definition of the 'thing' needed when creating art.
From the Paper "After mentioning the artist, Heidegger begins to question what the artist is. We must question then if the work is what makes the artist, or is it the artist that makes the work. He tells us that the artist is the source of the work, and the work is the source of the artist. Both the work and the artist depend on each other, and one of them cannot exist without the other. Both the artist and work are related to a thing that comes before each, and that is what Heidegger calls art. If artist and work are both dependent on each other to be the source of the other, so do to both depend on art as their source. Heidegger asks if art can be a source of a work of an artist. Heidegger then claims that art is nothing more than a collective noun that signifies nothing now."
Abstract This paper reviews and discusses human language. According to the paper, human language as an ability is a very intricate competence that cannot be defined within a confined dynamic because it can modify into numerous structures and can be both recorded,signed and articulated. The paper reports that one of the most efficient and simplest ways to cover the dynamics of a language is by recognizing and defining its indispensable elements.
Outline:
Introduction
The Cognitive Approach
LRH: Summary
Thought Determines Language Studies of Development
The Interdependence of Language and Thought Summary
From the Paper "Numerous subsequent studies, over the years, have backed this notion. The group of studies now being mentioned mainly studies the relation of the recognitions of concepts with the application of language. Tomasello and Farrar (1986) in their study focused on the understanding of the relational terms such as 'gone', 'down' and 'up' while analyzing the growth of the idea of an entity's solidity. They concluded that the changes that occurred while the object was visible were more quickly observed as opposed to when the object was not visible. Sinclair-de-Zwart (1969) in her study mainly concentrated on the child's ability to save or store info that if and when an object modifies its shape, it does not, in affect, modify its volume or mass. She observed that if the children understood the terminologies related to the change then they were able to store the info and not otherwise. She also observed that the children if did not understand the meaning of the words, teaching them the use of the words was inconsequent. Hence, all these studies support the understanding of thoughts and concepts for the effective use of language."
Abstract This paper discusses the idea that what we once considered critical is eventually replaced by the constant realization of what is truly important. The paper specifically discusses the writer's personal beliefs, or perceptions, that fall into this category. The paper then discusses the language that placates this type of thinking, along with the connection between the thinking and the language.
From the Paper "As part of creating false beliefs, the language associated should be considered. Until now, however, I have not considered this to be part of the issue at hand. However, when closely analyzing the language in each of these situations, there has been light shed on how individuals create irrational beliefs--including myself. In regards to capturing the approval of others, I constantly find myself asking how a certain act would make someone else feel. For instance, on many occasions I have told my significant other I am happy to make people such as my grandmother, my mother, and my siblings proud. The language factor that is important to note, however, is that I usually say (or think) this before I think of approving myself. In this specific situation, this creates a mandate for me to always look to please others first."
Abstract This paper looks at the school of analytic philosophy by examining the writings of different philosophers in order to show how they answered questions about human thought. The role of mathematics, language analysis and linguistic analysis in this school of philosophy are examined in detail. The author also looks at the identity theory, and how it is defined by the different philosophers.
From the Paper "Linguistic analysis as a method of philosophy is as old as philosophy itself and was practiced by the Greek philosophy: Several of the dialogues of Plato, for example, examine the ways in which certain terms and concepts may be clarified using a form of analysis that Frege and Kripke would feel perfectly comfortable with. The 20th century revival of these concerns was influenced by the British empirical tradition of John Locke, George Berkeley, David Hume, and John Stuart Mill and by the writings of the German mathematician and philosopher Gottlob Frege (Munitz, 1971, p. 199). The precision of mathematics and links between mathematical concepts and idealized forms of linguistic expression are thus central to many of the arguments."
Abstract This literature review examines available and relevant literature in relation to the factors that affect the nominations of minority students for the gifted program in low income (Title I) schools in relation to language barriers, teacher bias, teacher perception and other related matters. Includes table and chart.
From the Paper " It has been suggested and even stated as fact that the expectations a teacher has of students under their instruction effects the outcomes in terms of the achievement of the student. In the Title I Schools providing education to the minority student is required to adhere to certain standards of provision of education. Brophy (1983) works were inclusive of literature in relation to self-fulfilling prophecy effects and concluded that a minority of teachers hold expectations that effect the achievement of their students."
Abstract The paper explains how language diversity is a necessity in the critical thinking process, in expressing thoughts and in implementing the power of persuasion. The paper discusses how language barriers are not as much of a problem as they may appear to be. The paper concludes that it is necessary and important for people to be able to efficiently communicate with one another.
From the Paper "Critical thinking is defined as the process of solving complex real world problems, and generating multiple (or creative) solutions to the problem (Brighton). When gathering information to form the best possible solution, a number of people might be involved through the process. It is important that the gap be bridged together during this time. When a very foreign accent is presented, most would assume the individual has difficulty in understanding, hearing, or writing the English language (Thiederman). Thiederman's advice is to be optimistic, slow down, and avoid using slang. In these situations most foreigners are able to understand English very well, but have a hard time pronouncing the English language. With this being said, the critical thinking process must not be swayed by the language barrier. Critical thinking can definitely be affected by language, but according to Thiederman is not always as much of a problem as people assume. Language diversity is definitely affected in the critical thinking process, even if it could be eliminated. Not only does language diversity play a role in the critical thinking process, it affects the way in which diverse people express their thoughts."
This paper discusses the role that culture plays on language development and looks at the different stages, and outward effects that culture has on language.
Abstract This paper discusses language and the role of culture within learning. The paper asserts that the culture and environment a child is exposed to during the cultivation of language plays a key role in the development of his or her unique language facility. Specifically in this paper, the author opens by defining the two main schools of thought, the Nativist (or Hereditarians) and the Interactionists (or Environmentalists), as well as the Interactionists, asserting that the one similarity between each view is the need for social interaction either as a learning tool or an activation device. The paper goes on to discuss the stages of development throughout life and the concrete language development within each stage. Additionally, the paper assesses how the effects of culture on language are outwardly visible, for example through the act of translation or through the learning of additional languages. Finally, the paper concludes that throughout all of this, it can be shown that culture and language are mutually inclusive.
From the Paper "During the ongoing stages of development, semantics, syntactic and pragmatics the individual absorbs almost unconsciously the nuances of the language and the culture he or she is raised within. The rate at which a child increases vocabulary during the semantic stage is directly proportionate to the degree of their exposure to language through active verbal interactions from those around them such as parents, siblings as well as teachers and other caregivers. During the syntax phase the more formal development of language takes place wherein the child is learning to comprehend the basic rules of grammar and can more readily convey their thoughts and ideas in complete sentences. (Broderick & Blewitt 2006:.91-93) This is where the order of language that the culture has imposed comes into play. In some languages, such as Spanish, verbs begin sentences and are often a combination of the noun-subject and the action, in English the culture has delineated the subject from the action and the correct arrangement is subject -verb -object."
Tags: stages, development, semantics, syntactic, pragmatics, language
This paper argues in favor of the deaf or hard of hearing using American Sign Language or their native language over oralism or other methods of communication.
Abstract This paper explores the tradition of oralism vs. American Sign Language (ASL) in the West. Specifically the researcher proposes that deaf and hard of hearing students should be afforded opportunities to learn using their native language or American Sign Language. Forcing students to adopt other methods of learning including oralism or Signing Exact English (SEE) may promote frustration and inhibits learning in the classroom. This paper reviews the potential merits and demerits of each tradition, highlighting the significance of providing students with resources to use ASL in the classroom.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Personal Philosophy
The Essential Nature of Human Beings
Basic Meaning or Purpose of Life
Determination of Morality
Constancy of Life: Unchanging or Always Changing?
Philosophy of Education
My Perception of an Educational Philosophy
Why do you need a Philosophy?
What has been the Basis or Source of your Educational Philosophy?
How has your Philosophy Changed or Evolved over Time?
My formal Ideological and Philosophical Orientation
The Purpose of Education, Teaching and Schooling
Are Students Intrinsically Motivated to Learn?
Should Schools Address Human Differences such as Multiple Intelligence, Learning Styles etc. ?
Topics
Knowledge and Content
Knowledge with Knowing
My Conceptual Framework for Improving my Practice
Theoretical Framework for Improving Practice
Skills Competencies Necessary
Educational Skills Required
Communication Skills and Content
Nonverbal Communication Skills
Verbal Communication
Influence of Interpersonal Relationships
Importance of Self-Identity
Peer Relations
Influence of Support Networks
Knowledge and Learning
Direct vs. Indirect Learning
Direct vs. Indirect Communication
Conclusion
Reference
From the Paper "Many consider American Sign Language (ASL) the standard language beneficial for hard of hearing and deaf citizens. However, oralism shares a rich history much the same as ASL, and many often argue the potential merits and demerits of using one vs. another in an educational and communicational context. Wilcox & Peyton (1999) recognize that ASL is a fully developed language with unique grammar requirements distinguished from the English language (Coltrane, 2006). Oralism contrarily, involves lip reading to understand speech instead of using ASL to communicate with one another (Coltrane, 2006). This study will help review the merits and demerits of each, questioning whether one vs. the other is more beneficial for promoting communication and sharing among the deaf or hard of hearing community, or whether a combination of both may result in less frustrating choices among the hard of hearing and deaf community. "
Abstract The paper examines the different forces which makes language such a central role in our lives. The paper looks at how we gain our language skills, how we deal with these language skills socially and culturally and how they define us communally and individually. The paper looks, finally, at how we form our perceptions of ourselves in this world.
From the Paper "For many people, the acquisition of language occurs so naturally and happened so long ago, that it is a process that they rarely consider. It might cross one's mind when one has a baby or meets someone with a language disability, yet, these thoughts usually recede in accordance with our busy schedules. However, the acquisition and development of language is so intricate and amazing that it is rather amazing it occurs so naturally overall. Language is responsible for a large scope of our human abilities, and thus it is our task to fully examine our language and communication capacities in regards to our development of language."
Abstract This paper analyzes how the use of language in "Lolita" is meant to change the reader's perception of the protagonist's actions.
From the Paper "In his novel, Lolita, Vladimir Nabokov writes of a man, Humbert Humbert, plagued by his uncontrollable desire for the love of nymphets. Humbert acknowledges how those reading his accounts will judge them as amoral and wrong, so he attempts to use language, the descriptive analysis of events and people, to create a bond between himself and the reader."
Abstract This paper demonstrates the veracity of the following statement: All the other ways of knowing are controlled by language. In order to illustrate that this is in fact the case, the author examines the works of Jacques Derrida, Ludwig Wittgetnstein, and others in order to show that all thought, speech, and discourse is entirely dependent upon language and as such no epistemological framework can exist outside the confines of a linguistic tradition.
From the Paper "lAll the other ways of knowing are controlled by language. What does this statement mean with regard to the relationships between perception, emotion, reason, and language? In other words, what does language have to do with the way that human beings understand and interpret the world around them? The above assertion would have us believe that all ways of knowing, or epistemologies, are controlled in some part by language. It means that is impossible to perceive the world without language. It is impossible to experience an emotional response without language."
Abstract This paper examines critical thinking and the impact that it can have on logic and perception. It specifically discusses the importance of the ability to discern the reliability of sources of information. The paper presents a case study during which the writer personally experienced this type of error, where his preconceived notions about a scenario led him to a conclusion that differed from reality.
From the Paper "I learned an important lesson from the story with my cousin. The first thing I learned is that it is not physical size or sex that determines whether someone is a domestic violence offender; it is a person's nature. More importantly, I learned that one needs to pay attention to details, gather all of the facts, and then make judgments. I made my judgment about my cousin before gathering the facts, which made me selectively pick facts to fit my hypothesis. I rejected those facts, like the fact that my cousin frequently appeared with bruises, because they did not fit with my theory. I only picked facts that supported my conclusion, and, more importantly, I was not aware of what I was doing; the process was subconscious."
Abstract This paper gives an analysis of how perception plays a vital role in the decision-making process of an organization. It examines the effect of perception, shortcuts to perception and how decisions are actually made. Also explored is the impact of perception on moral and ethical decisions.
From the Paper "What is perception? Perception is defined as the process by which people organize and interpret their sensory impressions in order to give meaning to the world around them (Robbins, 2005). Perception is basically how each individual views the world around them. What one perceives can be very different from actually reality (Robbins, 2005). The perception of one person will vary greatly from that of another person. Perception can have a huge impact on decision-making and on an organization's behavior in whole."
