Articles tagged with Language Families
A University of Washington computer scientist has led a statistical study comparing the pattern of symbols in the Indus script to various linguistic scripts and nonlinguistic systems. The results found the Indus script's pattern is closer to that of spoken words, supporting the hypothesis that it codes for an as-yet-unknown language.
A genetic analysis by Francisco Salzano and colleagues supports Rodrigues' suggestion of a close connection between Carib and Tupi, while Je and Maipure show more distant relationships. The study provides new insights into the complex history of South American Native languages.
Research on Pirahã language reveals a cultural restriction against discussing external topics, contradicting Noam Chomsky's theory of genetically driven grammar. Additionally, Arawakan languages in Amazonia show similarities to non-Arawakan neighbors, suggesting an early trade language origin.
Linguist Valteir Martins reconstructs the sound structure and lexicon of Proto-East-Maku, an ancient language of the Brazilian Maku people. The language is genetically related to the Arawak languages, challenging earlier claims that the Maku Indians were the first inhabitants of the Amazon region.
Researchers have translated 43 hymns from the Atharvaveda into English, providing insight into centuries-old rituals. The hymns, written in Vedic Sanskrit, were used by priests to venerate gods, heal diseases, and exorcise evil spirits.