Theoretical Analysis of Volkerpsychologie and Sapir's Linguistic Determinism: A Comparative Study of Cultural and Linguistic Reflections

This study presents a theoretical analysis of the relationship between language, thought, and culture as conceptualized in Wilhelm Wundt’s Völkerpsychologie and Edward Sapir’s linguistic determinism. By conducting a comparative examination, this research identifies both the convergences and divergences between these two frameworks, particularly in their explanations of linguistic relativity and cultural cognition. Wundt’s perspective emphasizes the collective development of language as a function of cultural psychology, whereas Sapir’s approach underscores the structuring role of linguistic patterns in shaping individual and societal thought processes. The findings contribute to ongoing scholarly discussions in linguistic relativity, cognitive science, and cultural psychology by synthesizing these theoretical perspectives. This study also highlights the implications of integrating Wundt’s and Sapir’s views for contemporary interdisciplinary research on cognition and language. Ultimately, this research provides a foundational framework for future empirical investigations into the complex interrelations between language, cognition, and cultural evolution.Keywords: Völkerpsychologie, linguistic determinism, linguistic relativity, cultural psychology, language and thought, Wilhelm Wundt, Edward Sapir, cognitive science.