[MD] From each... to each

[Arlo J. Bensinger]

[Craig]
This seems muddled to me.  In the 1st paragraph it seems language determines our
values.  In the 2nd, values determine our language.  I can bring out a line of
fragrances called "Esquisite", "Eau de Paris", or whatever, but it won't sell
if it stinks.

[Arlo]
I don't think there is "determinism" either way. Let me say it this way.
Language "highly orients" one to cultural values. And much of this is through
"frozen metaphor", syntactical structure, metaphysical associations, etc. But,
of course, there must be flexibility within the structure to adapt.
Value-changes, brought about by dialogic reinforcement, have the potential (if
their dialogic strength becomes great enough) to change the system (i.e.,
change the language).

And, although your example demonstrates a limit, take a look at any trade
magazine for marketing. Study after study after study shows that the name of
the product, along with deliberate marketing associations, does indeed
influence whether a product will succeed or fail. Whatever product you do bring
out, will sell better as "Eau de Paris" than "Eau de Omaha". Want to sell more?
Celebrity endorsement. Even more? A slick advertising campaign showing hip
young girls in their underwear being chased by hot young guys. More? Higher a
designed to come up with a stylized shape for your bottle. More? ... You get
the idea.

Arlo