Lecture Notes: Problem Solving (cont.) and intro to Language
October 30
Today in lecture, we will complete our discussion of problem solving
and expertise, using the remaining slides from the last class. We will
then introduce a human ability that many argue separates
us from the animals: the ability to use and understand language. Slides
are posted here. We will only be doing
the first portion of the material this Tuesday and the remainder on Thursday.
Here are some of the major themes we will touch on:
-
What is the purpose of language? Why do we speak?
-
Does language separate us from non-human animals? What distinguishes
human
language from animal communication?
-
Characteristic features of language: generative, displacement,
recursive,
combinatorial, creative, etc.
As described in the Pinker paper, language gives us an amazing power to
direct the thoughts and attention of other people. This skill is a
foundation
of our social and cultural existence!
Back