The Paleolithic Shamans believed that articulate language could literally perform magic. It held real religious signifigance as well, which is well demonstrated in religions such as Christianity which places a huge value on speech. The Stoics, as well, held dialogue to be of foundational importance which can be seen through their use of dialogue and journaling.The ability to use the word - to communicate in a sophisticated manner - has allowed human beings to accomplish miraculous things. Modern humans look at cellphones without much amusement, but to our primate ancestors who stayed in the trees, even the ability to form communities would have seemed magical. What is it about the word, then, that provides us with this seemingly magic power? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices