Edward Sapir

Edward Sapir (January 26, 1884 – February 4, 1939) was an  American anthropologist-linguist, a leader in American structural linguistics. He is arguably the most influential figure in American linguistics. His anthropological approach, influenced by Franz Boas, began with his research on Native Americans in an attempt to document their languages before they disappeared. This led to his interest in the inter-connections among language, thinking, and culture. Work with Benjamin Whorf in this area led to what became known as the "Sapir-Whorf hypothesis" and the development of the field of ethnolinguistics. Sapir's belief that language shapes prediction and influences behavior led him to research the nature of an international auxiliary language. In order to function as a harmonious global society, effective communication must be achieved, and Sapir's work was instrumental in developing the understanding of how people may communicate without misunderstanding.