Ape Sign Language Linguistic Anthropology Anthropology

Ape Sign Language Linguistic Anthropology Anthropology

Ape Sign Language

Language is often pointed to as the hallmark of the human species. This assertion has had many proponents into the twentieth century and it is widely held that humans differ markedly from animals in their use of language. In the past thirty years, this assertion has been the subject of many debates as scientists have researched capacity of sign language acquisition by apes. Incredible claims have been made by some researchers about the linguistic capabilities of their subjects, mostly chimpanzees. These claims have been refuted and counter-refuted many times, and the literature on the subject is extensive. Currently, there is no general consensus on the ability of non-human primates to acquire language.

Top: Science: Social Sciences: Anthropology: Linguistic Anthropology: Ape Sign Language

See Also:

- The Gorilla Foundation brings interspecies communication to the public through Koko, famous for her sign language skills.
- Lauren Kosseff suggests the acquisition of some aspects of language in primates may shed light on the development of language in early humans.
- This project is part of a theoretical course on Syntax and Grammatical Theories taught by Prof. Dirk Geeraerts at K.U.Leuven.
- A article by Clive Wynne that argues evidence from the ape sign language studies demonstrates that our closest animal relatives do not have consciousness.
- Sue and Duane Rumbaugh argue the documentation of elementary language competence in species other than humans has significant implications for the understanding of the brain. Article includes a history of ape sign language research.
- This institute at Central Washington University cares for five chimpanzees who are being taught American Sign Language.
- A cognitive model of Chantek, a signing orangutan, for an installation at Zoo Atlanta.
- Chimpanzee language research projects at Kyoto University. News, pictures and biographies of chimpanzee subjects as well as researchers.
- General commentary on ape language with transcripts of chats with apes and interviews with ape language researchers.
- An article that describes why some researchers feel that chimps may be able to learn language.
- A discussion of the value and validity of ape language research.
- A report from the National Science Foundation discussing research into chimpanzee brain physiology and areas of the brain associated with language in humans.
- An overview written by Dave Switzer that features a summaries of multiple research projects. Also offers primate glossary.
- Primate research center studying language acquisition through work with bonobos and chimpanzees. Features a list of publications and ape biographies.
- Read the transcript of the chat which took place on April 27th, 1998. This event was the first ever live inter-species Internet chat.
- Cecil Adams' research column on the divided scientific opinions about apes and language.

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