*Language: communication by voice in the distinctive human manner, using arbitrary, auditory symbols in conventional with conventional meanings (according to the American college dictionary).
*Communication: the imparting or interchange of thoughts, opinions, or information by speech, writing, or signs (also according to the American college dictionary).
With this definition, I think I will go against popular belief and say that body gestures and such are not language but rather just in a different category of communication. Because doesn’t a language have to have two components based on this definition: a way to convey it to another individual by way of person, and by symbols. I am not saying that gestures are not used for communicating but believe in a more restricted meaning on language then what is given in the class, where the word communication would include other such forms.
(Yupp, that is about as profound as I get)
I see your point but I also think that gestures and such can still be a language because it can convey an idea to someone and you could consider certain hand gestures "symbols". Like giving a peace sign or waving hi to someone.. that may be stretching it. :p But I just thought I'd share.:)
ReplyDelete