Communication Quote by Noam Chomsky
“I think the use of language is a very important means by which this species, because of its biological nature, creates a kind of social space, to place itself in interactions with other people. It doesn't have much to do with communication in a narrow sense; that is, it doesn't involve transmission of information. There is much information transmitted but it is not the content of what is said that is transmitted.”
About This Quote
Source Lecture: MIT Linguistics Seminar, 1975
Language creates social contexts beyond mere information exchange, shaping how humans interact and understand each other.
In simple terms: Language builds social spaces, not just transmits facts.
Key Takeaway
Recognize language’s role in shaping social reality.
Themes
linguistics
philosophy
social theory
Mood
analytical
thoughtful
Type
academic
philosophical
When to use this quote
- classroom teaching
- public talks
- academic papers
Key Concepts
semiotics
cognitive science
Questions to Reflect On
- What social functions does everyday language serve?
- How does language shape power dynamics?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on social aspects may downplay the importance of clear information transfer.
![“I wrote an article about the marine landing [in Haiti] right away, but barely mentioned the oil, because my article would come out two months later and I assumed by then, "of course, everybody knows." Nobody knew. There was a news report in the Wall Street Journal, in the petroleum journals, and…” quote by Noam Chomsky](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dc5/noam-chomsky-42_articles_i-wrote-an-article-about-the-marine-land_13341.jpg)
