The origin of speech and its implication for the optimal size of human groups

Journal/Book: Crit Rev. 1997; 11: PO Box 10, Newtown, CT 06470-0010. Critical Review Foundation. 233-249.

Abstract: In Grooming, Gossip and the Evolution of language, Robin Dunbar argues that speech developed from primate vocalizations as a replacement for grooming. Dunbar convincingly shows that language is just a highly developed from of primate communication. But Dunbar's thesis about the relationship between speech and optimal group size is problematic: his focus on strong ties leads him to overlook the integrative force of weak-tie networks.

Note: Article Maryanski AR, Univ Calif Riverside, Dept Sociol, Riverside,CA 92521 USA

Keyword(s): LANGUAGE

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