LINGUISTIC RELATIVITY IN MULTILINGUAL SOCIETIES: DOES LANGUAGE SHAPE THOUGHT?

Abstract

Linguistic relativity, a concept popularized by Edward Sapir and Benjamin Lee Whorf, suggests that the structure and vocabulary of a language influence its speakers' worldview and cognition. This theory raises significant questions, especially in multilingual societies, where individuals navigate multiple linguistic systems. In these contexts, the interplay between language and thought becomes particularly intricate, as speakers often switch between languages, each with its own set of cognitive frameworks. This paper examines the implications of linguistic relativity in multilingual societies, exploring whether and how language shapes thought across various cognitive domains, such as perception, memory, and categorization. Through a review of empirical studies and theoretical perspectives, the paper critically assesses the evidence supporting or challenging the idea of linguistic determinism. Furthermore, it discusses the potential consequences of multilingualism for cognitive flexibility, highlighting the role of language in shaping social identity and cultural understanding. Ultimately, the study provides a nuanced perspective on the cognitive effects of language in diverse linguistic environments.