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Geoffrey Nunberg

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03:33

"Shibboleths" and Linguists.

Language Commentator Geoffrey Nunberg on shibboleths, those subtle points of grammar and usage that linguists' consider vital but which most people have never heard of.

Commentary
03:29

On the Western "Canon."

Language commentator Geoffrey Nunberg discusses the recent decision by Stanford University to amend its famed Western Culture requirement, and also the popularity of two recent books that critique educators for failing to emphasize the classic literature and ideas of western thought.

Commentary
03:33

Idioms in English and Other Languages.

Language commentator Geoffrey Nunberg discusses the new book They Have a Word for It. The book is a collection of foreign words and expressions for which there is no ready English translation.

Commentary
04:00

How the Blues Unites Anglophones Across the World.

Language commentator Geoffrey Nunberg looks back on the long nights he spent in a private club in Rome where the only requirement for membership was that you be a native-English speaker. He reflects on how the language brought together people who otherwise had nothing in common.

Commentary
03:24

The Lingo of Berkeley.

Language Commentator Geoffrey Nunberg examines the idioms of Berkeley, California, one of the most liberal and tolerant communities in America.

Commentary
04:08

Talking Computers and Their Language.

Language Commentator Geoffrey Nunberg explores the language and sounds of talking computers and how they handle the subtlety of vocal inflection. (Segment)

Commentary
04:00

Making Sense of Patriotic Fervor.

In celebration of Flag Day, Language Commentator Geoffrey Nunberg discusses the wording of the Pledge of Allegiance and "The Star Spangled Banner." (Rebroadcast. Original broadcast 6/10/87.)

Commentary

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