In The Science of Words, cognitive psychologist George A. Miller offers an accessible look into how language works—from meaning and memory to syntax and speech. Drawing on decades of research in psycholinguistics, he explores how people learn, process, and produce words. Miller explains the relationships between language and thought, covering topics like categorization, semantic networks, and ambiguity. The book bridges linguistics and psychology, showing how language reflects and shapes the human mind. It's a foundational work for understanding language acquisition, cognitive science, and the nature of communication. Clear and engaging, it’s ideal for students and curious readers alike.
About George A. Miller
George A. Miller was a pioneering American cognitive psychologist who played a foundational role in the development of cognitive science. Known for the “magic number seven” theory in short-term memory, he helped shift psychology from behaviorism to a focus on internal mental processes. His book The Science of Words examines how people acquire, process, and use language, making complex ideas about semantics and cognition accessible to a broad audience. A co-founder of the Center for Cognitive Studies at Harvard, Miller's interdisciplinary work bridged linguistics, psychology, and information theory. His influence continues to shape how we study and understand the human mind.
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