Recent breakthroughs in language science are challenging long-standing assumptions about what constitutes “language.” A major 2025 study published in Trends in Cognitive Sciences argues that the classical design features of human language — such as arbitrariness, duality of patterning, and displacement — are no longer sufficient to define the full breadth of human (and non-speech)…
solsticeuniversity.com – Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become one of the most transformative technologies of the 21st century. From reshaping industries to enhancing our daily lives, AI is everywhere, powering innovations we once considered science fiction. But what is AI, and why is it so impactful? Understanding AI AI refers to the simulation of human intelligence…
Deep beneath the arid soils of East Africa live the naked mole-rats, creatures whose social structure echoes ant colonies more than typical mammal behavior. Long-time field researchers emphasize how these hairless rodents thrive in large underground colonies with a single breeding queen and sterile workers. The immersive accounts—of colony members tunneling relentlessly, caring cooperatively for…
solsticeuniversity.com – Sign language is a visual-gestural form of communication that uses hand shapes, facial expressions, and body movements to convey meaning. It’s not merely a collection of gestures but a fully developed language with its own grammar, syntax, and vocabulary. While primarily used by the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities, it also serves individuals with…
solsticeuniversity – Climate change, driven primarily by human activities such as fossil fuel combustion, deforestation, and industrial processes, is one of the most pressing challenges facing our planet today. As global temperatures rise, the impacts on ecosystems are profound and far-reaching, affecting everything from species distribution to habitat health. 1. Altered Habitats and Species Distribution…
solsticeuniversity.com – Gravity is one of the most fundamental forces in the universe, yet it’s something we experience every day without necessarily understanding how it works. From the apple falling from a tree to the Earth orbiting the Sun, gravity plays a critical role in the structure and movement of the cosmos. But how does…
solsticeuniversity.com – The Crusades were a series of religious and military campaigns that took place from the late 11th to the late 13th centuries. These events significantly shaped the history of Europe and the Middle East, driven by a mix of religious fervor, political ambition, and economic motives. Understanding the Crusades provides insight into their…
solsticeuniversity.com – Topographic maps are invaluable tools for understanding the physical features of a landscape. Used by hikers, geographers, engineers, and environmentalists, these maps offer a detailed representation of the terrain, helping users visualize and navigate the natural and built environment. Learning how to read a topographic map is an essential skill that combines knowledge of…
solsticeuniversity.com – Time zones play a crucial role in organizing life across the globe, helping to standardize time and maintain order in daily activities. The concept of different time zones may seem complex, but it serves a vital purpose in global communication, travel, and business. Understanding why time zones exist can provide insight into how…
The pistol shrimp may be small—just a few centimeters long—but it wields one of the most powerful weapons in the animal kingdom: a superheated sonic snap. With a specialized claw that shuts at lightning speed, this tiny marine creature generates a cavitation bubble that momentarily reaches temperatures of nearly 4,800°C—hotter than the surface of the…