Yet Another Response

Jen asked:
Why can’t people think in the same way? Also, if everyone were to live in the same semantic environment and used the same language, would there be less arguments and more cooperation? If it is impossible to make everyone think in the same way, is it also impossible to stop all the conflicts?

I am rather mind-boggled by these questions, which makes them all the more interesting. I think one reason why people can't think in the same way is that, as Hayakawa explains, we unconsciously make assumptions about language, since we readily draw connections between the words we use and actual events we experience, regardless of whether or not those connections are sensible. These assumptions seem to be a likely source of superstitions. People can't suppress such superstitions because of the automatic assumptions that they make, which is also why people cannot all think the same things about an object, idea, or situation. Thus, the next question to be asked is, "Is it possible to stop ourselves from making such assumptions about language?" The answer to this question would help in answering Jen's third question (above), but unfortunately, I am still trying to find an answer. Perhaps someone could be of assistance? Any thoughts on this matter?

(Janet Lee)