Project description
Linguistic diversity as a window to the past
The Upper Amazon in western South America is a microcosm of linguistic diversity. As such it provides a unique natural laboratory for scientists studying the sociological dynamics that influence the evolution of linguistic diversity. The EU-funded SAPPHIRE project aims to uncover socio-historical factors that led to the observed diversity patterns by analysing (mis)matches between traces of history in the geographical, genetic, ethnographic, and linguistic records. This will allow the reconstruction of past events, such as migrations, language shifts and trade. Ultimately, the project will further our understanding of the development and maintenance of linguistic diversity and increase its potential in helping scientists gain insight into the interaction between ecology and human behaviour.
Fields of science
Programme(s)
Funding Scheme
ERC-COG - Consolidator GrantHost institution
2311 EZ Leiden
Netherlands
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Beneficiaries (1)
2311 EZ Leiden
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