Discussion Forum—A Way with Words, a fun radio show and podcast about language

Thanks for pointing these out. I may look into them further.

My philosophy is: misunderstandings wound; complete understanding kills.

Putting aside linguistic arguments against constructing common language (some of these arguments grow weaker with the Internet and global communications a reality), the philosophic base for them has always seemed dead wrong. I can see where, in some utopian views that have been popular, the idea of eliminating misunderstanding had a romantic appeal and a powerful promise. But, ultimately, such philosophies deny the beauty of diversity in more ways than linguistic.

People are different. They think differently. They desire different things. They hope for different goals. They employ different means.

Consider the "perfect" communication scenario: we know exactly what each other person is thinking. (it doesn't matter if you imagine this perfect understanding is achieved linguistically or not.) There is little doubt in my mind that fighting, murder, and war would escalate and never end. Mutual understanding is very far from common understanding. This is why it is largely pointless to argue religion or politics. It is good to discuss them and gain mutual understanding; it is pointless to argue them in an attempt to gain common understanding.

We do better to recognize differences (even linguistic ones) and accommodate them. (some here might say "embrace" or "celebrate"). Honestly, you don't want to be like me. And while I may want to be like you, you probably don't want me to succeed.

Live long and prosper. (translated from the original Klingon via Vulcan into English)