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Nonhuman and Nonhuman-Human Communication: Some Issues and Questions
1Department of Psychology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, United States.
Frontiers in Psychology
|October 11, 2021
Summary
Humans are fascinated by animal vocalizations, but deciphering their meaning remains challenging. Research suggests some animals, like Grey parrots, may possess cognitive abilities for symbolic reference, potentially altering information processing.
Area of Science:
- Comparative Cognition
- Animal Communication
- Bioacoustics
Background:
- Humans have long been intrigued by nonhuman vocalizations, questioning their complexity and relation to human language.
- Vocal learning, crucial for language-like abilities, is rare in nonhuman species, hindering communication research.
- Attempts to teach nonhumans symbolic systems aim to understand cognitive parallels with human communication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the challenges and progress in deciphering nonhuman vocal communication.
- To investigate the emergence of symbolic reference in nonhuman cognition.
- To examine if symbolic reference acquisition alters information processing in nonhumans, using Grey parrots as a model.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing research on nonhuman communication and vocal learning.
- Analysis of attempts to teach symbolic systems to nonhuman animals.
- Case study involving research on Grey parrots (Psittacus erithacus) and their capacity for symbolic reference.
Main Results:
- Deciphering nonhuman vocalizations is slow, with limited understanding of their meaning beyond emotional states.
- Distinguishing true symbolic reference from simple object-label associations in nonhumans is complex.
- Evidence suggests Grey parrots demonstrate symbolic reference, indicating potential differences in information processing.
Conclusions:
- While vocal learning is limited, some nonhuman species show potential for symbolic reference.
- The acquisition of symbolic reference may indeed lead to altered information processing in nonhuman animals.
- Further research, particularly with species like Grey parrots, is crucial for understanding nonhuman cognition and communication.
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