The problem of linguistic relativity today: studies in spatial conceptualization.

Article deals with a problem of linguistic relativity in the context of modern research on spatial conceptualization. Emphasis was placed on the experimental research. We analyze works by S. Levinsons, J. Haviland, P. Brown, G. Bennardo, J. Wassmann and others. The main problem is an infl uence of frames of reference used in language on cognitive abilities of speakers. It appears that language is the main factor in the determination of some cognitive preferences, but it never occurs in isolation, and it can’t be imagined beyond the sociocultural context. Despite the signifi cant success in verifi cation of linguistic relativity hypothesis, we need time for developing a holistic theory of neo-relativism.