
- 288 pages
- English
- PDF
- Available on iOS & Android
About this book
What is the nature of human language? How did it originate? How are different languages connected? Exploring over two thousand years of human enquiry, The Stories of Linguistics is an accessible introduction to the individuals, ideas and events that have shaped the field of linguistics. From Herodotus to Chomsky, and from philosophy to neuroscience, Kim Ballard presents a fascinating narrative that brings to life a dynamic subject with a rich history. The Stories of Linguistics:
- Uses a thematic rather than a traditional chronological approach to explore the complex development of Western linguistics
- Offers an accessible introduction to a field of linguistics which is attracting more and more interest
- Guides readers seamlessly through linguistic history, supported by timelines and suggestions for further reading and research With its broad scope and conversational style, The Stories of Linguistics is an ideal introductory text for students at every level, as well as anyone else with an interest in the history and development of language.
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Information
Table of contents
- Cover
- Contents
- List of figures and illustrations
- Acknowledgements
- Finding your way around this book
- Timeline of some key events in the history of linguistics
- 1 Introduction
- 2 The nature of language
- 3 The emergence of language
- 4 Language diversity
- 5 Language variation
- 6 The structure of language
- 7 The construction of meaning
- 8 The linguistic brain
- 9 Language acquisition
- 10 The continuing story
- Phonetic symbols
- Glossary
- Life dates of thinkers and researchers
- References and sources
- Journals and societies
- Index