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. 2026 Feb 18;17:1638010. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2026.1638010

Table 2.

Comparison of cognitive frameworks in linguistic relativity.

Framework Role of language and non-linguistic strategies Cross-cultural applicability
Sapir–Whorf Language shapes cognition Moderate (language-specific)
Universalism Universal cognition, no non-linguistic focus High (ignores cultural nuance)
Cognitive Ling. Metaphors shape cognition Moderate (metaphor-focused)
Middle Way Balances language and silence (kōans) High (bridges East–West)