Meaning: This quote by Edward Sapir, an American anthropologist-linguist, reflects the changing nature of the modern mind and the impact it has on expression and communication. Sapir was known for his work in the field of linguistic relativity, which posits that the structure of a language affects the perceptions of its speakers. In this quote, Sapir suggests that the modern mind is characterized by a critical and analytical spirit, and as a result, it requires a logical and defensible engine of expression that aligns with the rigorous spirit of modern science.

Sapir's assertion about the modern mind being more critical and analytical can be understood in the context of the broader intellectual and cultural shifts that have taken place in the modern era. With the advent of the scientific revolution and the subsequent development of modern science, there has been a growing emphasis on empirical evidence, rational inquiry, and logical reasoning. This has had a profound impact on the way people think and engage with the world around them.

The influence of modern science on the modern mind is evident in the way knowledge is produced and validated. The scientific method, with its emphasis on observation, experimentation, and verification, has become the gold standard for acquiring knowledge in various fields. As a result, individuals are trained to approach problems and phenomena with a critical and analytical mindset, seeking logical explanations and evidence-based conclusions.

Sapir's reference to the need for an engine of expression that is logically defensible and corresponds to the rigorous spirit of modern science speaks to the demand for precision, clarity, and coherence in communication. In the realm of language and expression, this translates to the need for a mode of communication that is not only persuasive and impactful but also rational and consistent. The modern mind seeks an expressive framework that can withstand scrutiny and align with the principles of logic and evidence that underpin modern scientific inquiry.

One way in which this demand for a logically defensible engine of expression manifests is through the evolution of formal systems of communication, such as language and logic. In the realm of language, for example, the development of formal grammar, syntax, and semantics reflects the desire for a structured and systematic approach to expression. Similarly, in the domain of logic, the formulation of formal logical systems aims to provide a framework for reasoning and argumentation that is both rigorous and coherent.

Furthermore, the influence of modern science on expression can also be observed in the realm of rhetoric and persuasion. The modern mind, characterized by its critical and analytical spirit, is not easily swayed by emotional appeals or unsupported claims. Instead, it demands well-reasoned arguments, supported by evidence and logical inference. As a result, the engine of expression that corresponds to the rigorous spirit of modern science must be capable of constructing persuasive and compelling arguments that adhere to the principles of rationality and empirical support.

In conclusion, Edward Sapir's quote captures the profound impact of the modern mind's critical and analytical spirit on the way expression is conceived and executed. The demand for a logically defensible engine of expression that corresponds to the rigorous spirit of modern science reflects the need for precision, coherence, and rationality in communication. As the modern mind continues to evolve, the quest for a mode of expression that can meet these exacting standards remains a central challenge for individuals and societies alike.