Here's a breakdown of why:
* Independent Invention: Written language developed independently in different regions of the world, suggesting it was not a single invention spread through cultural diffusion. For example, cuneiform writing in Mesopotamia, hieroglyphs in Egypt, and Chinese characters all developed independently.
* Evolutionary Process: Writing systems didn't spring into existence fully formed. They evolved from earlier forms of communication, like:
* Pictograms: Simple pictures representing objects or ideas.
* Ideograms: Symbols representing abstract concepts.
* Logograms: Symbols representing entire words.
* Syllabic Writing: Symbols representing syllables.
* Alphabetic Writing: Symbols representing individual sounds.
* Cultural and Social Factors: The development of writing was influenced by factors like:
* The need for record-keeping: For trade, administration, and legal matters.
* The rise of complex societies: With larger populations and more intricate structures.
* Technological advancements: Like the development of materials for writing (clay tablets, papyrus, paper) and tools (stylus, brush).
Therefore, instead of attributing written language to a single inventor, we should view it as a collective achievement across cultures and time periods. While specific individuals may have played crucial roles in refining and developing particular writing systems, the overall process was a long and complex one.