Life Matters

In this episode of Life Matters, Commissioner Johnston outlines the incredible power that language has over our thoughts and perceptions. Brian had studied Comparative Linguistics at Sonoma State University and explains a language phenomenon that many of us don’t often think about.  Just as we are unable to comprehend a completely foreign language, there is the related inability to think about or understand ideas for which we have no words. This principle also extends to deeper implications - that the meaning of words themselves can be changed simply by their usage in society. Those who control the tools of communication - major media and academic circles, are given great control over the use of language. They often create new rules and usages.   George Orwell eloquently illustrated the phenomenon in his book 1984. He had written an epilogue explaining how language is used to control the populace in collectivist-socialist cultures. Orwell’s epilogue is widely available and very recommended. It is entitled, “T