Description (podcaster-provided):
History and Philosophy of the Language Sciences explores the history of the study of language in its varied social and cultural contexts.Themes and summary (AI-generated based on podcaster-provided show and episode descriptions):
➤ History of linguistics • Philosophy of language • Linguistic theories and movements • Influential linguists • Sociolinguistics • Language and politics • Language documentation • Linguistic phenomena explorationThe podcast "History and Philosophy of the Language Sciences" explores various aspects of linguistic study throughout history, with a focus on the social and cultural contexts that have shaped modern linguistics. The series delves into significant historical movements, influential figures, and groundbreaking theories that have contributed to the development of linguistic thought.
Across the episodes, listeners will find discussions on the evolution of linguistic theories, such as formalism, distributionalism, and structuralism. The podcast examines the work of prominent linguists and thinkers, including Ferdinand de Saussure, Leonard Bloomfield, and Noam Chomsky, and considers their enduring impact on the field. Additionally, the series addresses the intersections between linguistics and other disciplines, such as anthropology, psychology, and politics.
The podcast also features interviews with scholars who provide insights into niche areas of linguistic study, such as the documentation of North American languages, language reclamation and revival, and the application of Charles Sanders Peirce's ideas in Peircean linguistics. Conversations with experts shed light on the methodologies underpinning linguistic research, including conversation analysis, ethnomethodology, and the role of ideologies in shaping linguistic theory.
Listeners interested in the historical trajectory of linguistics will encounter topics ranging from the Neogrammarians and their critics to the early days of comparative-historical linguistics and the Boasian approach to language study. The series also considers the challenges faced by linguistic research under different sociopolitical regimes, illustrating how the field adapts and responds to various external influences.
Overall, this podcast presents a nuanced exploration of the historical and philosophical dimensions of language sciences, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the factors that have shaped contemporary linguistic thought.