#GP 6: "The Language Instinct" by Steven Pinker

Exploring the Power of Language and the Threat of Its Decline

I stumbled upon The Language Instinct by Steven Pinker at a yard sale last summer, and I was surprised I hadn’t read it before. I’m familiar with Pinker’s work and already own several of his other books, but somehow this one slipped by me. It’s a shame, really, because the subject of language is something I’m incredibly passionate about. As parents, we often think about what we can do to best support our children’s development, and language is one of the most important tools we can give them. Language is the foundation of being human—it shapes how we think, connect with others, and explore the world. That’s why I always encourage parents to speak their native language to their children, especially when raising them in a foreign country.

Over time, I’ve become deeply grateful for my ability to speak multiple languages, but I’m also increasingly concerned about the decline of languages worldwide. Reading Pinker was a stark reminder of just how crucial language is—not just for communication, but for connecting us to the past, to cultures, and to each other.

Take a moment to think about it: what do English, Greek, Old Irish, Old Slavic, and Latin have in common? They all trace back to Sanskrit. It’s mind-boggling to consider that an ancient civilization once spread across vast territories—from Europe to Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, parts of Russia, India, and even into China. These linguistic ties are a powerful reminder that we are all connected in ways we might never fully grasp.

But here’s the harsh reality: languages live on only when children learn them. Linguists can tell when a language is in peril—if it’s spoken only by adults, it’s on the brink of extinction. This is the undeniable truth of our time: when the younger generation doesn’t carry the language forward, it fades away. And with it, we lose not only words but the history, traditions, and perspectives those words carry.

Here are five key takeaways from The Language Instinct that every parent should consider when raising their children:

1. Language is Innate – It’s Part of Who We Are
   Pinker argues that language is not just a learned skill; it’s an instinct deeply embedded in the human brain. “Language is not learned the way we learn to play chess or ride a bike,” Pinker writes, “It is part of the human genetic endowment.” This means that every child is born with a natural ability to acquire language. As parents, we have the incredible responsibility—and opportunity—to nurture that instinct from the very beginning. Encouraging language learning at home is one of the best things you can do for your child’s development.

2. Universal Grammar – All Languages Share a Deep Structure
   Pinker draws on Noam Chomsky’s theory of universal grammar, suggesting that all languages, despite their differences, share a common structure. This universal capacity for language explains why children can learn any language they are exposed to, whether it’s French, Mandarin, or Swahili. “The ability to learn language is not a cultural artifact; it is a biological one,” Pinker notes. Parents should feel empowered to expose their children to multiple languages—this natural ability makes language learning much more accessible than many realize.

3. Language Evolves – It's a Tool for Connection and Survival
   Language is not just a means of communication, but a product of human evolution. Pinker explores how language has developed to help us survive and thrive as social creatures. In the words of Pinker, “Language is a tool for cooperation, sharing knowledge, and exchanging ideas.” As parents, fostering a rich language environment can provide your children with the cognitive and social tools they need to navigate the world and connect with others.

4. Children Are Natural Linguists – They Learn Language Effortlessly
   One of the most powerful aspects of Pinker’s book is how it highlights children’s natural ability to acquire language. “Children are not taught language; they learn it,” Pinker says. They absorb and internalize language rules almost without effort, picking up on patterns and structures from their surroundings. As parents, we play a key role in providing a language-rich environment. Talking to your children, telling them stories, and engaging in meaningful conversations will help them develop these innate language abilities.

5. Language Decline – The Vital Importance of Passing on Language
   Pinker discusses the tragic reality that many languages are disappearing, especially when children are no longer speaking them. “A language is a living organism,” Pinker writes, “and when it stops being spoken by children, it dies.” As parents, this underscores the importance of encouraging children to learn and use their heritage language. The loss of a language means the loss of a connection to culture, history, and identity. In today’s increasingly globalized world, multilingualism is not just a valuable skill; it’s a key to preserving cultural richness and diversity.

As Pinker reminds us, language is the key to understanding not only the world around us but also the minds of others. “Language is the most human thing about us,” he writes. As parents, we should prioritize giving our children the gift of language—whether it’s through learning a second language or nurturing their ability to communicate in the languages of their heritage. The impact of this gift will last a lifetime, shaping their ability to think, connect, and thrive.