The Word of Mouth: A New Introduction to Language and Communication - Softcover

Finch, Geoffrey

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0333914546 ISBN 13: 9780333914540

Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan, 2002

Synopsis

The study of language has changed enormously over the past two decades. Many of the ideas which have become current in the twenty-first century challenge our notions about who we are and to what extent we are unique in nature. Word of Mouth introduces these ideas to the reader in a fresh, engaging and jargon-free way. It assumes no prior knowledge of language study, just an interest in the power of words and the way they shape and influence our lives. Geoffrey Finch begins with a discussion of the evolution of language, suggesting that the acquisition of language was a cognitive leap forward with significant repercussions for what we understand by the term 'human nature'. Subsequent chapters explore the social and communicative functions of language, its structure and psychology, as well as the impact of electronic media on contemporary usage. Ideal for the general reader and students of language and communication, Word of Mouth is a stimulating introductory guide to a fascinating subject.

About this title

About the Author

GEOFF FINCH has taught English at universities in New Zealand and Nigeria and is Senior Lecturer in Humanities at Anglia Polytechnic University, where he lectures and writes on both language and literature. He is the author of How to Study Linguistics and Linguistic Terms and Concepts, both of which are in Palgrave Macmillan's How to Study series.

Edition details

• Publisher: Palgrave Macmillan
• Publication date: 2002
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0333914546
• ISBN 13: 9780333914540
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 240