Chapter
Can Chimps Learn Human Language?
45:58 - 50:52 (04:53)
The idea that language is unique to humans has long been challenged. In the 1940s, a chimp named Vicki was taught to speak four human language words, supporting the hypothesis that language acquisition is innate rather than solely cultural.
Clips
In the 1940s, Keith and Kathy Hayes trained a chimpanzee named Vicki to speak four human language words, as part of an experiment to test whether humans were the only species capable of language acquisition.
45:58 - 48:34 (02:36)
Summary
In the 1940s, Keith and Kathy Hayes trained a chimpanzee named Vicki to speak four human language words, as part of an experiment to test whether humans were the only species capable of language acquisition. This raises the question of whether humans have a "language acquisition device" in their brains, and whether other species can use language like us.
ChapterCan Chimps Learn Human Language?
EpisodeSYSK Live: Koko, the Gorilla Who Talked
PodcastStuff You Should Know
Researchers in 1967 found that Washoe, a female chimpanzee, adopted a young male chimp named Luli and began teaching him sign language, ultimately signing with other animals as well.
48:34 - 49:16 (00:41)
Summary
Researchers in 1967 found that Washoe, a female chimpanzee, adopted a young male chimp named Luli and began teaching him sign language, ultimately signing with other animals as well.
ChapterCan Chimps Learn Human Language?
EpisodeSYSK Live: Koko, the Gorilla Who Talked
PodcastStuff You Should Know
This podcast episode explores the studies conducted on animals’ ability to communicate with humans through sign language and vocalizations.
49:18 - 50:52 (01:34)
Summary
This podcast episode explores the studies conducted on animals’ ability to communicate with humans through sign language and vocalizations. It features the story of Chantick, a rang tang who excelled at signing and gave directions to the local Dairy Queen.