In recent years epoch-making tools like positron emission tomography (PET), magnetoencephalography (MEG) and functional magnetic resonance imaging have enabled us to finally investigate the enigma of language. This book discusses language from a primarily medical point of view. It reviews classical as well as recent studies on significant topics such as cortical mechanisms of language and the identification of receptive and perceptive speech areas. The interaction between brain areas for perception and production is discussed and a summary of the latest research in this field is provided. New findings on the role of the cerebellum and the supplementary motor area in speech perception are reported. Furthermore the latest up-to-date results of PET studies on users of cochlear implants that have immensely improved the understanding of development and plasticity of the cortical language networks, are presented. Otolaryngologists, neurologists, neurosurgeons, along with audiologists and speech therapists will find a wealth of new information in this publication, which provides them with contributions on the latest results on how the brain controls speech and language. (A Karger "Publishing Highlights 1890–2015" title)