Music is Humanity’s Universal Language, Study Shows

“Music is the universal language of mankind,” we often hear, but how true is that maxim? Find out how a new study shows that people from diverse cultures can recognize the emotions expressed in songs.

I started taking music lessons when I was seven. I also sang in choirs throughout my youth, and even today, I enjoy writing songs, singing and playing guitar.

As an adult, I studied popular songwriting at the Royal Conservatory of Music. I can honestly say that music has been central throughout my life.

One of my music teachers, Marie Ryan, often told us that “music is the universal language.” That always rang true with me, and I’ve found that music has brought me together with people, both here at home and on all my travels.

“Music is the Universal Language”

Dr. Samuel Mehr has been studying human development and psychology for the past six years. He was recognized as a Rising Star by the Association for Psychological Science.

Professor Mehr studies the psychology of listening, sound and music. He founded The Music Lab, which is a research platform where everyday people can participate in musical experiments.

He’s currently an assistant professor adjunct at the Yale Child Study Center. He’s also a senior lecturer at the…