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Human language: Are nonhuman precursors lacking?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 February 2010

Marc D. Hauser
Affiliation:
Departments of Anthropology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138.Departments of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138. hauser@lsr.harvard.edu
Nathan D. Wolfea
Affiliation:
Departments of Anthropology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138.

Abstract

Contra Wilkins & Wakefield, we argue that an evolutionarily inspired approach to language must consider different facets of language (i.e., more than syntax and semantics), and must explore the possibility of nonhuman precursors. Several examples are discussed, illustrating the power of the comparative approach in illuminating our understanding of language evolution.

Information

Type
Open Peer Commentary
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1995

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