Comparison of statements made at different periods frequently enable us to give maximal and minimal dates to the appearance of a cultural element or to assign the time limits to a movement of population.

In a sense, every form of expression is imposed upon one by social factors, one's own language above all.

A second type of direct evidence is formed by statements, whether as formal legends or personal information, regarding the age or relative sequence of events in tribal history made by the natives themselves.

The psychology of a language which, in one way or another, is imposed upon one because of factors beyond one's control, is very different from the psychology of a language which one accepts of one's free will.

We see and hear and otherwise experience very largely as we do because the language habits of our community predispose certain choices of interpretation.

Language is the most massive and inclusive art we know, a mountainous and anonymous work of unconscious generations.

A standard international language should not only be simple, regular, and logical, but also rich and creative.