Ajay Conley

Evolving Communications

Week 1 Seminar Topic

9/26/07

If Jared Diamond and Bo Graslund were discussing the evolution of human language they would both agree that the development of communication and especially the development of language is the most significant step taken in the evolution of human beings.  They would also agree that this step is quite recent in the timeline of human evolution.       

Both seem to agree that the lack of physical evidence left behind by human of the past make it very difficult to pinpoint specifics about communication and language development as opposed to the development and implementation of tools (Diamond 1993, p47; Graslund 2005 p.112).  Tangible evidence such as spears and cutting stones are often more reliable resources for determining time lines and thought provoked advances in evolution.

Overall I felt that Graslund and Diamond writings differed in the aspect of speech vs. Language.  Diamond focused on more of a development of speech and communication where as Graslund expressed more insight on the development of language and communication.