Here's why:
* All languages have a way of being recorded: Even if a language doesn't have a traditional alphabet, it can be documented through other means like:
* Phonetic transcriptions: Linguists use symbols to represent sounds, creating a written record.
* Sign language: Sign languages, like American Sign Language (ASL), have their own visual grammar and structure that can be recorded through video or notation systems.
* Oral traditions: Stories, histories, and cultural knowledge can be passed down verbally, often through elaborate mnemonic techniques.
* Most languages have writing systems: Even if some languages don't have a widespread or dominant writing system, they often have one developed by linguists or used by a specific community.
The misconception arises from:
* Limited access to information: We may not be aware of all the writing systems used for various languages.
* Focus on standardized systems: We often consider "writing systems" as being alphabets or similar systems used for official purposes in a country.
It's important to remember: Writing systems are tools for language documentation and communication. Every language has its own unique way of being expressed, whether through spoken words, visual signs, or written symbols.