So the cultural implications of language are enormous (see Sapir, Whorf, Chomsky et al.). 

What if a group of humans exists that has a ridiculously primitive language?  No abstractions or recursions?

This article is the most revealing study of human nature that I have seen so far, and I've read a few.   Read it once, then think about it.  Then read it again.

I only have one word to describe the work, fascinating.

http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2007/04/16/070416fa_fact_colapinto

I don't read many novels anymore.  This is why.  Short works have much more value, pound for pound.  If one day I write something half as interesting as this article, my life will be complete.