Language Evolution

Question 1

3-Factor model of language evolution

Answer 1

1. Phylogeny: biological characteristics that have enabled linguistic communication
2. Ontogeny: maturation processes of developing a language across an individual’s lifetime
3. Culture/Environment: cultural-historical forces that have changed and shaped linguistics

Question 2

2 aspects of the comparative method

Answer 2

1. Continuity: modern human language evolved from quantitative changes in primitive communication systems
2. Discontinuity: modern human language is qualitatively different from primitive communication systems

Question 3

Language origins

Answer 3

The language abilities of modern apes likely existed in our common ancestors ~5-8million years ago –> speech is an adaptation (our vocal tracts are different from ape’s vocal tracts) –> a conservative estimate because there is no fossil evidence to support this

Question 4

Vocal tract necessary for speech production

Answer 4

Anatomically correct larynx results in ability to exert fine control over vocal apparatus –> hyoid bone in neaderthral found 300k years ago, key in speaking, swallowing, and breathing

Question 5

Requirements of speech production

Answer 5

Ability to control speaking apparatus and rapid changes in airflow

Question 6

Evolutionary strengths of speech

Answer 6

Vocal apparatus frees up hands for use, concepts morph into proto-language

Question 7

Proto-word hypothesis

Answer 7

Word-like units must be present before complex sequences emerge –> no evidence

Question 8

Pidgin languages

Answer 8

Restricted vocabulary, occurs during language mixing, simpler than a full language, rudimentary grammar

Question 9

Genetic Bioprogram Hypothesis

Answer 9

Evolution from proto-languages to full languages –> genetic changes produced a language organ specializing in building complex, hierarchical structures that support language production and comprehension (Hawaiian Creole, Nicaraguan sign language, and Selective Language Impairment are evidence via biological changes)

Question 10

FOXP2 gene

Answer 10

First gene discovered to have an association with language (and complex movements/sensory input and output) –> DNA extractions show early homonids possessd some version of FOXP2 gene

Question 11

Enlargement of Broca’s area

Answer 11

Mutation led to an enlargement of Broca’s area that was needed in order for language to develop

Question 12

Modularity hypothesis

Answer 12

Language is a module that also contains sub-modules –> domain specific, genetically determined, distinct neural structure, computationally autonomous

Question 13

Module speech production system

Answer 13

1. Mental models: Concepts –> “lexicalized” concepts –> word forms –> motor plans –> movement –> speech
2. Mental processes: Lexical access –> positional processing and inflection –> phonological and prosodic encoding –> execution