Words and Minds takes a lively and accessible look at the evolution of language and how we use language in joint activities. Examining everyday language and drawing on a wide range of research, Neil Mercer provides a unified account of the relationship between thought and language. Mercer analyses real-life examples of language being used effectively or otherwise in many differ ent settings, including workplaces and schools, the home, the Internet, and the courtroom, and offers practical insights into how we might improve our communication skills. Words and Minds will appeal to anyone interested in language and how we use it. 'For anyone interested in the functions of human language, Words and Minds should be essential reading' - Guy Cook, Reading University. 'Using wide ranging and fascinating language data, Words and Minds with its multidisciplinary and cross-cultural approach captures the reader's interest and holds it from beginning to end' Jean Stilwell Peccei, Roehampton Institute London 'There can be few more fundamental questions that how human beings use language to think and act together. Neil Mercer has produced a terrific resource for all of us in tackling this question in a clear and comprehensive way' - Angela Goddard, Manchester Metropolitan University