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On the evolution of language and generativity.

M C Corballis1

  • 1Department of Psychology, University of Auckland, New Zealand.

Cognition
|September 1, 1992
PubMed
Summary

Human language generativity likely evolved gradually from early Homo species, possibly starting as manual gestures before becoming vocal with Homo sapiens sapiens. This transition freed hands for tool use and cultural development.

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Area of Science:

  • Evolutionary biology
  • Linguistics
  • Paleoanthropology

Background:

  • Human language generativity is a key differentiator from animal communication.
  • The evolutionary timeline of generative language is debated, with some proposing a sudden emergence in Homo sapiens sapiens.
  • Contrasting evidence from brain size and growth patterns suggests a more gradual evolution.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To reconcile conflicting evidence regarding the origin and evolution of generative language.
  • To propose a novel hypothesis for the transition from manual to vocal language.
  • To explain the link between language evolution and the human cultural explosion.

Main Methods:

  • Comparative analysis of fossil evidence (brain size, vocal apparatus).
  • Integration of linguistic timelines and archaeological findings (cultural artifacts).
  • Hypothetical modeling of language modality shifts (manual to vocal).

Main Results:

  • Generative language likely evolved continuously from early Homo (e.g., Homo habilis).
  • An initial manual gesture system may have preceded a predominantly vocal system in Homo sapiens sapiens.
  • The shift to vocal language freed hands, facilitating tool manufacture and artistic expression.

Conclusions:

  • The evolution of generative language was likely a gradual process, not a sudden event.
  • A manual-to-vocal shift in language modality offers a unified explanation for linguistic and cultural evidence.
  • The freeing of hands due to vocal language played a crucial role in human technological and cultural advancement.

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