Scientists Discover Why Human Language Is So Different From Computer Code
Have you ever wondered why we don’t speak in digital code? New research has an answer. Human language seems messy compared to computers. However, it is perfectly designed for our brains.
Why Language Isn’t Digitally Compressed
Computers use efficient binary code. This method compresses information tightly. Human language uses words and familiar phrases instead. Scientists asked why our brains prefer this seemingly complex system.Professor Michael Hahn co-authored the study. He explains the key reason. Abstract digital codes don’t match our lived experience. For example, a made-up word like “gol” has no meaning. We understand “cat and dog” immediately because we know these animals.
Familiar Patterns Reduce Mental Effort
The research shows a clear benefit. Our brains save energy by using predictable language. Think about your daily drive to work. You likely take the familiar route. This path feels easier than a shorter, unknown road.Language works the same way. Common phrases let our brains predict what comes next. Therefore, processing them requires less mental power. Digital code might be shorter, but it is much harder for humans to process.
How Our Brains Predict MeaningWe understand sentences step by step. Each word narrows down the possibilities. For instance, saying “the five green…” prepares us for a plural noun. Finally, the word “cars” makes the meaning clear.This predictable structure is crucial. A jumbled phrase like “green five the cars” confuses us. The expected chain is broken. As a result, our brain cannot easily find meaning.
Implications for Artificial Intelligence
This discovery helps improve technology. It explains how large language models like ChatGPT work. These AI systems learn from human language patterns. Understanding our brain’s efficiency can make AI even better.The study was published in Nature Human Behaviour. Ultimately, it shows our language is brilliantly adapted. It is not inefficient. Instead, it is perfectly tuned for the human mind.
