Challenging the Primacy of Mentalese: the Role of Natural Language in the Creation of New Words

This paper aims to challenge Steven Pinker's argument that new words are primarily rooted in mentalese instead of in natural language. The significance of this research falls into its exploration of the deep interaction between thought and language, which is a long-standing topic in both the philosophy, linguistics, and cognitive science area. By examining the economics of language, language socialization, and sound symbolism, through an analysis of portmanteaus, political terminologies, literary expressions, fan fiction, and brand names, the paper argues that natural language, significantly shapes thought and language creation with its adaptability, socio-cultural influence, and phonetic features. This refutation of Pinker’s position not only contributes to the broader debate on the relationship between language and thought, but also sheds light on the mechanisms of linguistic innovation. Ultimately, this study reaffirms the pivotal role of natural language in shaping both thought and communication.