Can Chimpanzees and Apes talk?
Are humans the only creatures that can understand language? Can chimpanzees and Apes talk? I believe that humans are not the only primates capable of elementary language. I think that chimpanzees and Apes are capable of straightforward language and can express concrete ideas. I think that they have the language capability of a young child, only if they are worked with constantly. I do not believe that Chimpanzees and Apes are capable of abstract and complicated language or ideas. Apes and Chimpanzees can only succeed learning language if they are taught everyday and practice everyday, if the method of teaching is compatible with them, and if they are willing to learn the material. Without all of these elements, language would not be capable for any primate other than humans. Psychologists since the 1940's have been trying to teach chimpanzees how to learn sign language. Chimps do not have vocal ability to speak like humans can; therefore psychologists decided to teach chimps sign language. After much effort and years upon years of teaching and practicing with chimpanzees; psychologists saw an astounding accomplishment. Chimps did have the ability to learn and use simple signs to make rudiment
Not every primate is apt to using sign language as a means of communication. In Kanzi's case, he uses lexigrams and gestures to convey what he wants to. But in Washoe's instance she uses American Sign Language. Another ape named Lana uses geometric symbols on a key board. (Issue 5 pg 5) All methods of conversation and teaching are equally advantageous to the primate's individual ability. It simply depends on what method is easiest for the primate to understand and grasp and for the trainer to teach. Besides being able to understand what symbols went with what objects, Kanzi was able to understand spoken words and phrases. He was able to follow directions and fulfill requests. As long as the words were in his vocabulary, Kanzi was able to understand them no matter what form they were spoken or given to him. (Issue 5 pg 8) Psychologists learned from teaching apes, chimpanzees and gorillas language; that they do not have an innate ability for language like children do. Human children will pick up language through everyday contact with the world around them. They do not have to have lessons to learn and understand language. Primates on the other hand have to be taught over and over the simplest concepts, words, and objects in order to gain somewhat of a mastery of language. They have to work constantly in order to make any sense of what they are trying to communicate. Many times their communication, be that through sign language or other means, is grammatically incorrect. For example, they have not mastered human syntax or language rules. In Kanzi's case, he uses two lexigrams or a lexigram and a gesture in order to communicate what he wants, but usually he names an action ("keep away") and then gestures or names the object ("balloon"). He is more likely to name an object and then point to it instead of pointing to an object and then naming it. (Boyd and Silk pg 502) Even though there is much debate and contraversy whether or not chimpanzees, apes, and gorillas are able to communicate through language, I believe that they are able to communicate through symbols, sign language, and other means. I also believe that they are able to understan
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Approximate Word count = 1452
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)
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