The Kingdom of Speech is a book written by Tom Wolfe, an American author and journalist. Published in 2016, the book explores the controversial topic of human language and its origins. In this work, Wolfe challenges the widely accepted theories proposed by Noam Chomsky and Charles Darwin regarding the evolution of language.

Wolfe begins by examining the history of linguistics and the influential figures who have shaped our understanding of language. He delves into the works of Ferdinand de Saussure, Edward Sapir, and Benjamin Lee Whorf, among others, highlighting their contributions to the field. However, he argues that these theories fail to provide a comprehensive explanation for the origin and development of human language.

The central focus of Wolfe’s critique lies in challenging Noam Chomsky’s theory of universal grammar. Chomsky proposed that humans possess an innate language faculty that allows them to acquire language effortlessly. According to Chomsky, all languages share a common underlying structure, and this universal grammar is hardwired into our brains.

Wolfe argues that Chomsky’s theory lacks empirical evidence and is based on speculative assumptions. He questions why there is no fossil record or archaeological evidence to support Chomsky’s claims. Wolfe suggests that language may have emerged through cultural evolution rather than being solely determined by genetic factors.

Furthermore, Wolfe challenges Charles Darwin’s theory of natural selection as it pertains to language evolution. Darwin proposed that language developed gradually through a process of natural selection, with individuals possessing advantageous linguistic abilities having a higher chance of survival and reproduction.

Wolfe argues that there is a fundamental difference between human language and animal communication systems. While animals communicate through instinctual signals or calls, human language involves complex syntax and semantics. He suggests that the emergence of human language was a unique event in evolutionary history, separate from other forms of communication found in the animal kingdom.

Throughout the book, Wolfe weaves together historical anecdotes, scientific research, and interviews with prominent linguists to support his arguments. He also explores the influence of language on human culture, politics, and society.

In conclusion, The Kingdom of Speech by Tom Wolfe challenges the prevailing theories of language evolution proposed by Noam Chomsky and Charles Darwin. Wolfe argues that these theories lack empirical evidence and fail to provide a comprehensive explanation for the origin and development of human language. By questioning the assumptions underlying these theories, Wolfe offers an alternative perspective on the nature of language and its significance in human evolution.

• The Kingdom of Speech

• By: Tom Wolfe
• Narrated by: Robert Petkoff

The master storyteller and reporter provocatively argues that what we think we know about human speech and evolution is wrong.

Tom Wolfe, whose legend began in journalism, takes us on an eye-opening journey that is sure to spark widespread debate. The realm of speech is a compelling, paradigm-shifting argument that speech – not evolution – is responsible for humanity’s achievements and complex societies.

From Alfred Russel Wallace, the English beat Darwin to the theory of natural selection but later abandoned it, through the controversial work of modern-day anthropologist Daniel Everett, who challenged understanding. Knowing now that language is pre-programmed in humans, Wolfe examines the formal, long zigzag, laughing Darwinian lines, old and new, and finds it irrelevant here in the Kingdom of Languages language.

Tom Wolfe is one of the few people that have the guts to take on idols like Chomsky, and speak the truth. Just like he did in the painted word. This book is a great resource for learners to learn from and to gain confidence to stand up to the bullies that inhabit academia

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