Meaning: This quote by Edward Sapir, a renowned anthropologist and linguist, reflects on the significance of the attitude of independence toward constructed language. Sapir emphasizes the advantages of this attitude, particularly in fostering a sense of mastery over language rather than subjugation to it. To fully understand the depth of this quote, it is crucial to delve into the context of Sapir's work and its implications for language and culture.

Edward Sapir was a seminal figure in the field of linguistic anthropology, known for his influential contributions to the study of language and its intersection with culture. Central to Sapir's work was the concept of linguistic relativity, which posits that the structure of a language significantly influences the thought and behavior of its speakers. This theory, also known as the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, challenged conventional notions of language as a static and universal system, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of the dynamic relationship between language and cognition.

In the quote, Sapir underscores the value of adopting an independent attitude toward constructed language, suggesting that such an approach empowers individuals to assert control over language rather than passively conforming to its dictates. This perspective aligns with Sapir's broader exploration of the intricate ways in which language shapes human consciousness and agency.

The notion of a "constructed language" alludes to the artificial or planned languages that have been intentionally created, such as Esperanto or Volapük, in contrast to natural languages that evolve organically within communities over time. Sapir's emphasis on independence in relation to constructed language can be interpreted as a call for critical engagement with linguistic systems, urging individuals to maintain a sense of autonomy and creativity in their linguistic practices.

By framing the attitude of independence as a "great advantage," Sapir highlights the liberating potential of this mindset. Rather than being passive recipients of language norms, individuals who embrace independence can recognize themselves as active agents in shaping and utilizing language for their own purposes. This reorientation of perspective from "obedient servant" to "master of language" underscores the transformative power of adopting a proactive and empowered stance toward linguistic expression.

The implications of Sapir's quote extend beyond the realm of linguistics to encompass broader themes of agency, identity, and cultural autonomy. In a world characterized by diverse linguistic landscapes and the ongoing exchange of ideas across linguistic boundaries, Sapir's words resonate as a reminder of the profound impact of language on human experience and the importance of maintaining a sense of ownership and creativity in linguistic expression.

In conclusion, Edward Sapir's quote encapsulates his profound insights into the nature of language and its relationship to human agency. By advocating for an attitude of independence toward constructed language, Sapir encourages individuals to view themselves as active participants in the ongoing evolution and utilization of language. Through this lens, language is not merely a tool for communication, but a dynamic and malleable medium through which individuals can assert their mastery and creativity. Sapir's words serve as a poignant reminder of the transformative potential inherent in the way we engage with language, inviting us to consider the ways in which our attitudes toward language shape our perceptions and experiences.