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An experiment that will abolish the use of words · Jul 31, 13:05

“There is a brief episode in Gulliver’s Travels in which Gulliver visits the academy of Lagado and learns of an experiment that will abolish the use of words. The Lagado professors that since words are only names for things, people should carry with them those things necessary to engage in discourse with others. Gulliver describes two men, sinking under the weight of their sacks of things, who meet in the street. Opening their packs they ‘hold Conversation for an Hour together; then put up their Implements, help each other to resume their Burthens, and take thier leave’ (Swift 1762/1970:158)” Annette B. Weiner, The Trobrianders of Papua New Guinea, p 159.

Annette B. Weiner, The Trobrianders of Papua New Guinea, p 159 -171.