Pilot Lecture: The Mysteries of Human Language—What’s in a Word?

Overview

Course No. 90166
What exactly constitutes a “word”? While we use words daily, defining them proves surprisingly complex across different languages. In this pilot lecture, linguist Laura Bar-el:

• Examines why words resist simple universal definitions
• Explores how language connects humanity despite cultural differences
• Introduces fundamental linguistic concepts about word formation
• Reveals how words shape our communication and world understanding

Join this fascinating introduction to linguistics that will change how you think about language.

Video Lessons

1. The Mysteries of Human Language: What’s in a Word? (29 min)
   Investigate why defining “word” varies across languages and cultures while remaining fundamental to human connection.