Language evolution: semantic combinations in primate calls |
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Authors: | Arnold Kate Zuberbühler Klaus |
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Institution: | School of Psychology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews KY16 9JP, UK. |
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Abstract: | Syntax sets human language apart from other natural communication systems, although its evolutionary origins are obscure. Here we show that free-ranging putty-nosed monkeys combine two vocalizations into different call sequences that are linked to specific external events, such as the presence of a predator and the imminent movement of the group. Our findings indicate that non-human primates can combine calls into higher-order sequences that have a particular meaning. |
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