2023年12月22日

Study Session Report:『言語の本質－ことばはどう生まれ、進化したか』

On July 20, 2023, IDEAFUND Co., Ltd.(Founder & CEO: Naoko Okawachi, Tokyo) conducted an internal study session centered on『言語の本質－ことばはどう生まれ、進化したか』by Mutsumi Imai and Kimi Akita, focusing on how humans have acquired language and the lessons we can learn from this process.

Book Summary
Language is a vital part of our daily lives and a source of intellect and art. This book explores fundamental questions: Why do humans possess language? How do children learn to speak? What are the origins of language as a vast system? How do humans differ from AI and animals in terms of language? Delving into the essence of language is akin to exploring what it means to be human. The key lies in onomatopoeia and abduction reasoning, unique human learning abilities. Cognitive scientists and linguists join forces to unravel the mysteries of language’s birth and evolution, probing the very roots of humanity. (Chuko Shinsho) – translated by Mio Taguchi

Discussion
We discussed the overlap between concepts developed by the authors, such as the “Iconicity Wheel Hypothesis” and “Bootstrapping Cycle,” with anthropological discussions, applying them to everyday examples.

A Word from the Presenter
“I selected this book because its discussion on irrational abduction in language acquisition resonates with the anthropologist’s need for both rationality and embodiment. The key takeaway is that language encompasses both factors of embodiment (irrationality and intuition) and rationality (arbitrary and abstract) elements. This realization reaffirms the importance of embracing both aspects in deepening our understanding of anthropology.” – Mio Taguchi

About IDEAFUND

IDEAFUND is a professional research company located in Tokyo.  With the corporate mission of “Accelerate Innovation with an Idea,” IDEAFUND Co., Ltd. brings together professionals in fields such as cultural anthropology. We are committed to deriving insights and creating new business needs through behavioral observation research. Since its foundation in 2018, its founder, Naoko, and her colleagues have applied the methodology of cultural anthropology to market/consumer research. Through this approach, we aim to gain a comprehensive understanding of consumers and users, thereby identifying opportunities for innovation.

Contact info:
info@ideafund.co.jp