The Talking Ape: How Language Evolved (Oxford Studies in the Evolution of Language) - Softcover

Burling, Robbins

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9780199214037: The Talking Ape: How Language Evolved (Oxford Studies in the Evolution of Language)
Softcover
ISBN 10: 0199214034 ISBN 13: 9780199214037
Publisher: Oxford University Press, 2007

Synopsis

Humans never run out of things to say. We explain, we cajole, we gossip, and we flirt--all with the help of language. But how in the space of several million years did we evolve from an ordinary primate that that could not talk to the strange human primate that can't shut up?
In this fascinating, thought-provoking book, Robbins Burling presents the most convincing account of the origins of language ever published, shedding new light on how speech affects the way we think, behave, and relate to each other, and offering us a deeper understanding of the nature of language itself. Burling argues that comprehension, rather than production, was the driving force behind the evolution of language--we could understand words before we could produce them. As he develops this insight, he investigates the first links between signs, sounds, and meanings and explores the beginnings of vocabulary and grammar. He explains what the earliest forms of communication are likely to have been, how they worked, and why they were deployed, suggesting that when language began it was probably much more dependent on words like "poke" or "whoosh," words whose sounds have a close association with what they refer to. Only gradually did language develop the immense vocabulary it has today. Burling also examines the qualities of mind and brain needed to support the operations of language and the selective advantages they offered those able to use them.
Written in a crystal-clear style, constantly enlivened by flashes of wit and humor, here is the definitive account on the birth of language.

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About the Author

Robbins Burling is Professor Emeritus of Anthropology and Linguistics at the University of Michigan.

"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.

Publisher
Oxford University Press
Publication date
2007
Language
English
ISBN 10 
0199214034
ISBN 13 
9780199214037
Binding
Paperback
Edition number
1
Number of pages
304
Rating
  • 3.66 out of 5 stars
    85 ratings by Goodreads

Other Popular Editions of the Same Title

9780199279401: The Talking Ape: How Language Evolved (Studies in the Evolution of Language)

Featured Edition

ISBN 10:  0199279403 ISBN 13:  9780199279401
Publisher: Oxford University Press, 2005
Hardcover