Can Social Networks Shape Language Evolution? – Yasin Tuna Kurşunlu | Academy Cognition #37

December 17, 2025

We continue our Academy Cognition series, where we feature presentations by undergraduate and graduate students, with a compelling question on the evolutionary foundations of language: Could social networks have shaped how language evolved?

In this session, Yasin Tuna Kurşunlu from the University of Edinburgh will discuss how we can test the effects of social networks on the structural principles of language through experimental simulations. The presentation centers on the idea that language's evolutionary history may rely not only on biological foundations but also on cultural and social innovations. Did social structures and interaction patterns shape language rather than neural innovations? We will evaluate these and similar questions through cognitive theories working with evolutionary predictions.

Yasin Tuna Kurşunlu completed his undergraduate education at the University of Toronto in cognitive science and linguistics double major with a minor in anthropology . His undergraduate project is on the evolutionary predictions of cognitive theories. Having completed his master's degree in the Evolution of Language and Cognition at the University of Edinburgh, Kurşunlu’s research focuses on testing cognitive theories via experimental simulation methods.

Platform: Zoom Date and Time: December 21, Sunday, 17:00 Free of charge.

Academy Cognition is a series of talks that aims to create a space for idea and knowledge exchange, fostering collective discussion and intellectual engagement, particularly among undergraduate and graduate students, individuals who often have less of a voice in academic settings. You can also contribute to Academy Cognition by submitting a text or presentation related to your work. For more details, feel free to contact us!

Participation in the event is free of charge. You can fill out the form below to register. The relevant Zoom link will be shared with participants on the day of the event.