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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Assessment of Social Cognition in Non-human Primates Using a Network of Computerized Automated Learning Device (ALDM) Test Systems

Assessment of Social Cognition in Non-human Primates Using a Network of Computerized Automated Learning Device (ALDM) Test Systems

Published on: May 5, 2015

Language, meaning, and social cognition.

Thomas M Holtgraves¹, Yoshihisa Kashima

¹Ball State University, Muncie, IN 47306, USA. 00t0holtgrav@bsu.edu

Personality and Social Psychology Review : an Official Journal of the Society for Personality and Social Psychology, Inc

|May 6, 2008

Summary

Language is a key tool in social cognition, shaping meaning-making and influencing social interactions. Its use can lead to unintended consequences, impacting cultural differences in how we understand each other.

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Area of Science:

Psychology
Linguistics
Sociology

Background:

Social cognition research often overlooks the pivotal role of language.
Meaningful social interaction is fundamentally about constructing and exchanging meaning.

Purpose of the Study:

To highlight language as a semiotic tool for meaning-making in social cognition.
To explore the reciprocal effects of language use on social cognition and cultural differences.

Main Methods:

Analysis of language as a collaborative meaning-making process.
Examination of the influence of language use on individual and collective meaning representation.

Main Results:

Language use collaboratively shapes meaning representation for speakers, listeners, and groups.
Language and social cognition exhibit reciprocal long-term effects.

Conclusions:

Language is a crucial semiotic tool in social cognition with potential for unintended consequences.
Language use significantly impacts the development and persistence of cultural variations in social cognition.