What function does language serve in cognition?

Language serves as a primary means of communication that significantly influences thought processes. This concept is often associated with the theory of linguistic relativity or the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, which suggests that the structure and vocabulary of a language shape how its speakers perceive and think about the world. Language enables individuals to organize their thoughts, express ideas, and communicate complex emotions, making it integral to cognition.

By facilitating the categorization and interpretation of experiences, language allows for the development of abstract thinking and problem-solving skills. In this way, it not only serves as a tool for expressing thoughts but also actively shapes the way people think and understand their environments, affecting cognitive processes such as memory, perception, and reasoning. Thus, its role extends beyond mere communication to being a foundational element of cognitive development and functioning.