Concept Formation and the Development of Language. Theoretical Paper No. 37.

This paper examines possible interchanges between cognitive and language processes with particular attention given to concept formation and semantic language development. Aspects of psychological and contemporary linguistic theories are discussed as a way to interrelate the functions of thought and language. The author concludes that while language is subordinate to fundamental thought processes, language ought not be regarded as a passive instrument operating on behalf of the intellect. Through correct application of linguistic rules, concepts seem to be fully expressed when words are joined in sentences. However, the ability to encode and decode words in sentences depends ultimately on seeing single words as concept labels. Language and concept formation are so interwoven that their precise interrelationships are difficult to define. Because of the similarities between the two, it is proposed that the acquisition and development of word meaning be reformulated in verbal concept learning terms, while the relationship governing words be treated in the framework of language development. (Author/DI)