Final answer:
Language development's consistent sequence across cultures suggests a strong genetic influence, supported by the concept of a language acquisition device proposed by Noam Chomsky. The environment provides specific language input, but the intrinsic capacity to acquire language is innate and maximized during a critical early period.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fact that language development proceeds in a very standard, sequenced manner in nearly all children suggests that language development is strongly influenced by genetics. This consistency across different cultures and the presence of a predictable developmental sequence points towards an innate biological predisposition for language acquisition, as proposed by researchers like Noam Chomsky. Chomsky introduced the concept of a language acquisition device (LAD), which theorizes that humans are born with an innate capacity to learn language.
While the environment does play a role in the nuances of language development, such as vocabulary and dialect, the fundamental ability to acquire language and the sequence in which language milestones are achieved is remarkably consistent around the world. As children are exposed to language, they naturally acquire the lexicon and grammar required for effective communication, further supporting the notion that genetics plays a crucial role in this process.
Additionally, there is evidence suggesting that there is a critical period for language acquisition, which is most effective early in life. Comprehensive studies on the biology and environment in the development of language, such as those by Gleitman & Newport (1995), reinforce the idea that language development is neither a random process nor an aspect that is insignificant for cognitive development.