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About this quote

What does it mean?
Language may have arisen from our deep need to express complaints.
In plain terms
We developed language to complain.
What can you take from it?
Recognize the venting function of speech.

Where it applies

  • social interaction
  • writing

Putting it to work

  • use constructive feedback
  • listen actively

Questions to consider

  • Why do we complain more than praise?
  • How does complaint shape culture?

Another view

Language also serves many other purposes like cooperation and art.

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