Customer Reviews

In Light of Our Differences: How Diversity in Nature and Culture Makes Us Human

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The author makes a fascinating case for regarding linguistic diversity in the same way we treat biodiversity. The shrinkage of world languages and concomitant homogenization of global culture should be just as threatening to us as the more emotional response we have when facing the loss of a furry or feathered creature. In addition to being a painstakingly constructed argument, complete with a fascinating rehabilitation of the philosophy of William James, the book itself is extraordinarily well-written. Not a common occurrence in the field of scientific treatises. A must-read for anyone concerned with the prospects for intelligent life on Earth.

Don't be intimidated by the subject matter. Harmon's style of writing is straightforward, clear, and accessible. I found many of his ideas extremely unique. I recommend this!

I can't say enough good things about this book. Harmon's accomplishment is that he makes difficult subject matter both extremely interesting and eminently readable. If you care about preserving the world's linguistic diversity, you MUST read this book. If you don't care now, read it anyway, and you WILL. A tour de force!

Don't be intimidated by the subject matter. Harmon's style of writing is straightforward, clear, and accessible. I found many of his ideas extremely unique. I recommend this!