National languages are all huge systems of vested interests which sullenly resist critical inquiry.
Edward SapirRead
The fact of the matter is that the 'real world' is to a large extent unconsciously built up on the language habits of the group.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Language significantly shapes our perception of reality and our social interactions.
Edward Sapir's quote emphasizes the profound influence that language has on our understanding of the 'real world.' He suggests that our collective language habits form the basis of our reality, indicating that the words we use shape our thoughts, interactions, and culture, ultimately influencing how we perceive the world around us.
Themes
LanguageRealityPerceptionSocietyCulture
In practice
Example use cases
In a discussion about the role of language in shaping societal norms.
More from Edward Sapir
All quotes →In a sense, every form of expression is imposed upon one by social factors, one's own language above all.
Edward SapirRead
No important national language, at least in the Occidental world, has complete regularity of grammatical structure, nor is there a single logical category which is adequately and consistently handled in terms of linguistic symbolism.
Edward SapirRead
No two languages are ever sufficiently similar to be considered as representing the same social reality.
Edward SapirRead
It would, of course, be hopeless to attempt to crowd into an international language all those local overtones of meaning which are so dear to the heart of the nationalist.
Edward SapirRead
It is quite an illusion to imagine that one adjusts to reality essentially without the use of language and that language is merely an incidental means of solving specific problems of communication or reflection.
Edward SapirRead
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