A discussion on the nature of language argues the following: (1) the concept of a closed and finite rule system is inadequate for the description of natural languages; (2) as a consequence, the writing of variable rules to modify such rule systems so as to accommodate the properties of natural language is inappropriate; (3) the concept of such rule systems belongs instead to a world of stereotypes about language, which are usually politically or ideologically motivated and which must be constantly re-examined, or to written language, which is different in nature and not an alternative representation of spoken language; and (4) while taking note of such stereotypes and their effect on natural language, sociolinguists, as well as all other linguists should be concerned with the description of the systems inherent in the linguistic behavior of networks of individuals, working toward models of adequate explanatory adequacy. Examples are drawn from French, Bahasa Malaysia, Italian, Greek, Swahili, Tok Pisin, and Caribbean Creole. A four-page bibliography is included. (MSE)