Symbols by Michael Moore

Although we as people use symbols every day, our most used and most
important symbol is our language. Written and spoken language is our main
source of communication (though technology is slowly diminishing that),
and without it we would have great confusion. But this unique ability to
communicate so effectively is what sets us apart from all other animals.

Another huge difference between humans and animals is our variety of
culture. And as Steven Pinker claims, our language is shaped by our
culture. This theory has been backed by many anthropologists who have
studied language structure in different communities and even tribes. We
as humans have put labels or words on every thing, idea, and concept, so
naturally we will use these symbols in such a way that expresses what is
important and what’s not so important in our culture. Studying the
language of any culture is a very effective way to learn about how the
people live. Pinker also points out that language is a reflection of
culture, instead of the culture being shaped by the language spoken. I
think it is interesting that the language or symbols we use are
constantly changing as long as our culture and way of life continues to
change and develop.

How can we live without symbols? Without them there is no way to
communicate or represent our thoughts and/or needs. Our language is a
complex set of symbols with a very particular set of rules that allow us
to express anything that we could think of. The words themselves are
symbols with a specific meaning as well as how we deliver the words to
whoever is listening. An example of this would be sarcasm. The literal
meaning of the sentence is usually very far off, if not the complete
opposite of, what the speaker is trying to say. I’m curious to see how
our society will change in future years and the effects it will take on
our language.