Language as a source of Knowledge

by frostflash (student)

International Baccalaureate Theory of Knowledge

ILYAS SHAIKHIBDP 1

Language as a source of knowledge

The English word "language" derives ultimately from dn̥ǵʰwéh₂s "tongue, speech, language" through lingua, "language, tongue", and langage "language”. The word is sometimes used to refer to , and other kinds of such as those used for . A language in this sense is a of for and decoding . Yet another definition sees language as a system of communication that enables humans to cooperate. This definition stresses the social functions of language and the fact that humans use it to express themselves and to manipulate objects in their environment

The recorded history of Western linguistics begins with a confrontation between two fundamental opposing of language: language as a source of knowledge, and language as a mere medium of communication. Does language have a direct and essential link with reality, spirituality, or physical, or is it purely arbitrary? The implications are considerable: But if it is arbitrary, then nothing of broader significance is to be gained from its study: the goal of linguistics will be the understanding of language and nothing more. Although this is the view- in many cases, the unspoken assumption- of mainstream linguistics today, it has not ...

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Let’s consider an important perspective of ‘language’ apart from various known, spoken, and written (cultural) languages belonging to different areas around the world- commonly used by the common masses- the language of mathematics is certainly one of the oldest; and this has been the international language of scientists for many centuries. People may think that this is rubbish but this may not be true. For instance, in the science fiction movie Contact, the heroine played by Jodie Foster explains that aliens would use sequences of prime numbers as their initial attempt at communication because “Mathematics is the only truly universal language”.

Moreover we all aware mathematics is surely an important part of major school curriculum and especially the IB Diploma Programme. Though, we study it as a subject rather than a ‘language’ and this is a fact. Mathematics is the core of science, no doubt. So do we consider this language to be source of knowledge regardless in any field be it scientific, psychological, etc. So has language of mathematics been discovered or invented? The famous 16th century physicist, who challenged the dogmatic and unscientific principles of the church quotes:

However I have only considered one perspective of this issue and there may be many facts and issues which could be considered before finally presenting a justified verdict on this subject’s falseness or otherwise. Surely, a universal stand where no one can argue is that GOD is the source of all knowledge.