Abstract
Kako (1999) requests new studies of linguistic continua between humans and nonhumans. I question the value of such studies and the importance of determining whether any component of language is uniquely human. I argue that training of specific constructs (e.g., closed classes) may not provide appropriate data, and that whether a particular species lacks or has human-like syntax likely results from specific ecological/evolutionary pressures. Social factors purported to drive intelligence and communication in primates likely exist for nonprimates such as parrots; moreover, Grey parrots demonstrate rudiments of supposedly uniquely human abilities: supralaryngeal vocal tract control, anticipatory coarticulation, and sound play.
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This commentary was prepared under the support of National Science Foundation Grant IBN 96-03803. I thank Spencer K. Lynn, Diana L. May, and Dianne K. Patterson for their input and our many lively discussions on the topic.
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Pepperberg, I.M. Rethinking syntax: A commentary on E. Kako’s “Elements of syntax in the systems of three language-trained animals”. Animal Learning & Behavior 27, 15–17 (1999). https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03199425
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.3758/BF03199425