Researchers have criticized the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis as being too absolute. A primary criticism is the lack of empiricism behind the proposal that language determines thought.

Criticisms of the Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis

The Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, proposed by Edward Sapir and Benjamin Lee Whorf in the 1940s, states that language determines thought. This view suggests that the language habits of a community encourage its members to interpret language in a particular manner.

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Psychologists investigate the relationship between language and thought by questioning whether language shapes thoughts and actions, or whether thoughts and beliefs shape language.

Relationship Between Language and Thought

Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020, April 22). Psychology (2nd ed.). OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/1-introduction

OpenStax Psychology (2nd ed.) Textbook

Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis

How do words not only represent our thoughts but also represent our values?

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