Which of the following best reflects Vygotsky's beliefs on language and thought?

Vygotsky's theory emphasizes the fundamental role of social interaction in the development of cognition, which is encapsulated in the belief that all mental functions have social origins. He posited that higher mental processes are shaped through social interactions, particularly through language, which he viewed as a major vehicle for intellectual growth.

According to Vygotsky, children's thinking emerges from their engagement with others and the cultural tools available in their environment. He introduced concepts such as the Zone of Proximal Development, where learning is most effective when a learner engages with a more knowledgeable person. This indicates that cognitive development is not solely an individual process, but one deeply rooted in cultural and social contexts.

In contrast, the other options present perspectives that do not align with Vygotsky's views. For instance, suggesting that all mental functions are individualistic or that thought is independent of social context contradicts his emphasis on the social nature of learning. Additionally, proposing that language development is entirely innate overlooks Vygotsky's belief that language is primarily developed through social interactions and cultural exchanges.