Overview

The Making of Language presents an alternative to the prevalent view of language as the product of human genetics. It argues instead that language originated in the cooperative activity of early humans. 'We made language, as we made pots and pans'. Mike Beaken shows how early forms of communication developed in step with technology, culture and social organisation. This edition considers also the significance of music in relation to other forms of communication. This thoroughly revised edition covers a wide range of disciplines and reflects relevant published research since the first edition appeared in 1996. Written clearly and free from jargon, it will be welcomed by anyone interested in the evolution and origin of language.

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9781906716141

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Reviews

'The Making of Language successfully bridges many concepts related to the study of linguistics. By incorporating ideas from many disciplines including psychology and archaeology, for example, Beaken draws interest from a diverse audience. Additionally, with a combination of scientific research and philosophical musings, he presents his findings in a fashion that is likely to appeal to readers from varying levels of knowledge. He provides an overview on many topics that would likely educate a novice in the area of linguistics, yet he also provides in depth explanations of the processes involved in many newer concepts which would likely be of interest to the more advanced reader. Lastly, by simultaneously respecting the contributions from various scientific disciplines, Beaken provides a means for professionals from many fields to see the making of language from new perspectives.'

Of the first edition: '[Beaken's] pioneering introduction to the question provides one of the clearest overviews, from a Marxist perspective, of the origins of language and the social nature of language' Marnie Holborow.

Author Information

Dr Mike Beaken is a lecturer in Communication Studies at Sheffield Hallam University.

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