Exploring Both Internal and External Factors and Pragmatics of Monkey Communication

Abstract

The evolution of human language has been unknown for decades and thus researchers have started to study primate linguistics with the hope of understanding how human language evolved. Rich data in primatology has made it possible for linguists to apply the theories of contemporary linguistics in explaining monkey communication. However, it is still debatable whether only the environmental factors can determine the monkey calls. In this article, we review recent studies and suggest that both internal and external factors should be considered while doing experiments. We also emphasize studying pragmatic enrichment for both humans and monkeys to understand whether it works in the same way in these two species.

Type Preprint

Publisher Lingbuzz