Animal and Human Communication What is language and are humans the only ones who have it?

Communication Transfer of information from one entity to another. Types of communication include: Chemical/Hormonal (within our bodies) Electrical (eg. Fish) Tactile Visual Auditory

Animal Communication Bees http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-7ijI-g4jHg

Whales Humpback Whales http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPPjS4uMwtw Scientists believe the songs are to attract female whales during mating season.

Predator Calls as Symbols VERVET MONKEYS Four distinct calls for four different predators: Python Baboon Leopard Eagles PRAIRIE DOGS Calls for multiple specific predators Calls that convey descriptive information about the general size, color, and speed of travel of the predator

Parrots Alex, the Grey Parrot A Short Youtube Video about Alex, The Parrot https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SzPiTwDE0bE The New York Times Obituary for Alex http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/10/science/10cnd-parrot.html

16 Features of Language Uses the Vocal-auditory channel - can be done while doing other things Uses broadcast transmission - need not see speaker to understand message Uses directional reception - stereoscopic sound locates speaker Interchangeabiliby - each is capable of saying what any other says - not so male vs female signals in other animals

16 Features of Language 5) Complete feedback - speaker hears self and monitors message 6) Specialization - is used for no other purpose than communication 7) Semanticity – many complex symbols tied to exact meanings 8) Arbitrariness - no intrinsic relationship between symbols and their meanings

16 Features of Language 9) Discreteness - no continuous sounds (eg. sirens) 10) Displacement - can talk about the past, or about things not present spatially 11) Open system - can make unique new statements and be understood 12) Duality of patterning - sound and meaning are linked

16 Features of Language 13) Cultural transmission - no genetic inheritance of specific rules/sounds/meanings 14) Prevarication - can lie - most animals cannot 15) Reflexiveness - we use language to discuss language 16) Learnability - can learn multiple language

Animal Communication Is it language? Chimpanzees –Washoe, Bobby Bonobos – Kanzi, Panbanisha Orangutans – Princess, Chantec Gorillas – Koko, Michael