Why words matter - and who would we be without them

While almost all animals have unique ways of communicating, the development of complex, language-based communication sets humans apart. It allows us to express ourselves through speech and the written word. With inventions ranging from paper to computers and smartphones, the capacity and reach of human communication continues to grow. And yet it is as fraught with potential for misunderstanding and harm, as it is for positivity and change.

Most of us take this incredible human ability for granted. Children are naturally wired to pick up multiple languages almost effortlessly. And as adults we often don't spend enough time thinking about the importance of language. But who would we be as a species and as individuals without words? See full transcript here.

Photo credit: Chris Montgomery