The Life and Death of Languages: What Defines Them?

This episode explores what defines a language, how it evolves, and why some languages disappear. It traces the origins of human communication, the role of government policies in shaping languages, and how linguistic identity influences culture and power. The discussion covers language extinction, revival efforts like Hebrew and Irish Gaelic, and the impact of technology on linguistic diversity. It also examines how language shapes thought, from number perception to time concepts. Ultimately, the episode celebrates language as a dynamic force that connects, empowers, and defines us.you can find the full transcript