Good Talk To The Hand: New Insights Into The Evolution Of Language And Gesture Article Review Example

This article discusses how language and the use of gestures have evolved since long ago with different words and signs meaning different things in different cultural and linguistic contexts. It has been found out that language is the first attribute that defines humankind. There have been many conceptions as per how mankind acquired the art of and gift of language. For instance, Charles Darwin sees language a gradual development and less deliberate consequence of communication between animals (Wargo, 2008). He notes “Man not only uses inarticulate cries, gestures, and expressions, but has invented articulate language; if, indeed, the word invented can be applied to a process, completed by innumerable steps, half-consciously made” (Wargo, 2008). The way human beings and animals communicate is governed by different brain systems. This article, therefore, defines language as a system or model which can coherently express a wide range of ideas and views using a set of word elements or sounds. Sound elements are grouped together to come up with sentences and phrases which are in turn used to express ideas.
One element significant in the recombination of predetermined sound raw materials yet conspicuously lacking in most forms of communications between animals is grammar. In essence, animals such as monkeys lack a consistent manner of coming up with new sounds to express new situations. Instead, they rely on distinct and common sounds as a sign of warning, danger, etc. On the other hand, as Noah Chomsky points out in this article, human beings are born with ‘universal grammar which serves as the foundation stone of acquiring language (Wargo, 2008). It is noted that mankind has been able to evolve language due to his ability to manipulate the physical and social environments. There are two viewpoints of how language is acquired and correspondingly evolves. Some philosophers think that language is acquired from a single and unique language processing system. Other philosophers think of language as arising from multiple and well-distributed cognitive abilities. Furthermore, language is viewed as inseparable from any feats that people have the ability of performing. There lacks a clear and concise origin and evolvement of language. Wargo, (2008) states that, “Among those who are passionate about such subtleties, it is a hot debate”.
Language is considered an instinct because it is readily learnt from birth. The article points out that it is difficult when adults try learning a new language compared to when infants or children grow up learning a new language. In essence, the author notes “You can’t learn language without learning a language” (Wargo, 2008). Language is used universally for the same purpose, communication. Nevertheless, there exists no universal language in the world. Just like people, languages are also unique. Language is therefore not only built from abstract thought, but, also from the radical connection between objects and words. Currently, there are over 6000 languages being spoken all around the world despite the ‘extinction' of languages such as Eyak (Wargo, 2008). Significantly, scientists and researchers continue to study how language evolves through observations and experimentations especially on primates.
Hearing and understanding influence talking, this is also influenced by the face and mouth. This motor control skills and abilities form the basis of acquiring a particular language. A new development on vocalizing is the use of gestures by use of hands and facial expressions. As an evolutionary development in communication, the use of gestures has been phenomenal in initiating social interactions in both humans and animals (Wargo, 2008). Most of the time gestures are accompanied by sounds. They are used to relay emotions and any situation requiring attention. Gestures are therefore used to supplement language to help explain and understand different situations. However, there is still need to conduct more research to come up with the real exact evolution of language.
Wargo, E., (2008).Talk to the Hand: New Insights into the Evolution of Language and Gesture. Retrieved from <www.psychologicalscience.org/index.php/publications/observer/2008/may-08/talk-to-the-hand-newinsights-into-the-evolution-of-language-and-gesture.html> Accessed on 18th March, 2015.