Words and Rules: The Ingredients of Language

by Steven Pinker
Words and Rules: The Ingredients of Language cover
Good Books rating 4.0
Language and Linguistics
Buy online
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 11602
  • Added: 2026-03-11
  • Updated: 2026-03-11
  • Publisher: New York : Basic Books
  • Published: 1999-10-28
  • Reviews: 3

Words And Rules is a captivating exploration of the intricacies of language and cognition, written by one of the world's leading cognitive scientists. The book delves into the rules that govern our use of language, offering a fresh perspective on how we communicate and understand the world around us. It challenges conventional wisdom and provides a sparkling, thought-provoking journey through the science of language./n/nThis book is not just for linguists or cognitive scientists; it is for anyone curious about the workings of the human mind. It combines cutting-edge research with engaging storytelling, making complex ideas accessible and enjoyable. Whether you're a student, a teacher, or simply someone interested in the mysteries of language, Words And Rules offers a unique and enlightening read.

Reviews
JSTOR · Thomas Wasow · 2001-01-01
excellent 4.00

The book presents a compelling argument about the mental dictionary and grammar that underpin language. It is praised for its engaging and entertaining style, making complex ideas accessible.

Thomas Wasow's review in JSTOR commends Steven Pinker's ability to present complex ideas in an engaging and entertaining manner. Wasow highlights the book's central argument that language is composed of a mental dictionary of memorized words and a mental grammar of creative rules. The review suggests that Pinker's work is not only scientifically rigorous but also highly readable, making it accessible to a broad audience. Wasow appreciates the book's ability to make profound mysteries of language understandable and enjoyable.

Quick quotes

    Words and rules: The ingredients of language.

    By STEVEN PINKER. New York: Basic Books, 1999.

    Reviewed by THOMAS WASOW, Stanford University.

London Review of Books · Charles Yang · 2000-08-24
intriguing 3.50

The book delves into the intricacies of language, particularly the English past tense, which might not be glamorous but is fascinating. The exploration of regular and irregular verbs offers a unique perspective on how language is processed.

Charles Yang's review in the London Review of Books highlights the book's focus on the English past tense, a topic that might not initially seem glamorous but is indeed intriguing. Yang appreciates how Pinker uses the distinction between regular and irregular verbs to illuminate the complexities of language processing. The review suggests that while the subject matter might be niche, Pinker's approach makes it accessible and engaging. Yang also notes that the book is a serious work of science, yet it remains entertaining and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    The mastery of the English past tense isn't a glamorous topic, not these days.

    That, however, is what Words and Rules is about.

    Pinker's approach makes it accessible and engaging.

Trends in Cognitive Sciences · M. Halle · 2000-01-01
entertaining 4.50

The book is noted for its entertaining and accessible style, making it a pleasure to read despite its scientific depth. It successfully bridges the gap between complex linguistic theories and popular science.

M. Halle's review in Trends in Cognitive Sciences praises Steven Pinker's ability to make complex linguistic theories accessible and entertaining. Halle notes that the book is a serious work of science but remains highly readable and engaging. The review highlights how Pinker's work bridges the gap between academic research and popular science, making it enjoyable for both experts and general readers. Halle appreciates the book's ability to present profound ideas in an entertaining manner, making it a pleasure to read.

Quick quotes

    Like its predecessors, Words and Rules makes such entertaining reading.

    I had to remind myself while reading it that it is a serious book of science.

    Pinker's work bridges the gap between academic research and popular science.

Appears in Lists

Not yet in any lists.