Understanding our natural world: why languages matter

What role do languages play in helping us understand and protect our natural world? Do the words we use when talking about our local flora and fauna matter? In this episode of LinguaMania, we explore the links between language and nature. There are many endangered languages around the world. If they are lost or go dormant, the heart and soul of many cultures and communities will be affected. But have you ever considered the impact the loss of a language might have on our natural world? In this episode of LinguaMania, Felice Wyndham, Karen Park and Andrew Gosler explore the links between language and nature. How can revitalizing linguistic diversity help also protect biodiversity? And why do the words we use when talking about our local flora and fauna matter? You can see the full transcript for this episode on the Creative Multilingualism website: https://www.creativeml.ox.ac.uk/linguamania-episode-2-understanding-our-natural-world-why-languages-matter

Om Podcasten

Welcome to the LinguaMania podcast. Produced by researchers from Oxford University-led Creative Multilingualism, the series explores some fascinating perspectives on languages and language learning, asking: Do we really need human translators? Why do we use metaphors and what do they teach us about other languages and cultures? How much of an unfamiliar language can we understand? Would creative language teaching make the subject more popular? Can languages help protect the natural environment? And so much more… So stop what you’re doing and start exploring the wonderful world of multilingualism!