The Effect of Language and Thought on Our View of the World

Language enables us to categorise, label, and understand the world. By assigning names to objects or concepts, we simplify and organise the vast complexity of our environment.
The Sapir-Whorf hypothesis suggests that the structure of a specific language can influence how its speakers perceive reality. This theory includes two components: linguistic determinism and linguistic relativity.
Linguistic determinism implies that our thinking is determined by language. For instance, if a language lacks a certain word, its speakers would not perceive the associated concept or object.
Linguistic relativity, on the other hand, implies that variations in language lead to differences in thought processes and worldview among speakers of different languages.
Some research evidence suggests that language does affect perception. For instance, speakers of languages with numerous terms for different shades of a certain colour can distinguish those shades more accurately.
Yet, it’s important to note that language does not entirely script our thinking. Evidence indicates that people can recognise and remember items and concepts even if their language has no specific words for them. This challenges the idea of strong linguistic determinism.
Moreover, language and thought interact in complex ways. While language may guide cognition to a certain extent, cognitive processes can also shape language.
Social context greatly impacts language use, and thus our perception of the world. The language we use can be influenced by social factors, such as culture, group identity, and societal norms.
The utilisation of language both reflects and shapes social attitudes and beliefs. For example, the increasing use of gender-neutral terminology mirrors changing attitudes towards gender roles and identities, and it also helps to further advance those changes.
Besides, the way language is used can establish power structures and relationships. For example, the use of formal language may denote respect or authority, while slang or jargon can indicate group membership or exclusion.
In sum, the relationship between language, thought and the world view is complex and reciprocal. Language not only influences how we perceive and interact with the world, but our experiences and social contexts also shape the development and use of language.