A four-stage model for language evolution under the effects of human self-domestication. (July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Benítez-Burraco, Antonio; Progovac, Ljiljana
• Is Part Of: Language & communication. Volume 73(2020)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 17
• Publication Date: 2020-07
• Subjects: Anatomically-modern humans -- Cultural niche construction -- Self-domestication -- Language evolution -- Reactive vs. proactive aggression -- Verbal aggression; Communication -- Periodicals; Linguistics -- Periodicals; Communication -- Periodicals; Linguistics -- Periodicals; Communication -- Périodiques; Linguistique -- Périodiques; Communication; Linguistics; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 405
• DOI: 10.1016/j.langcom.2020.03.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0271-5309

Abstract

Abstract: We propose that languages (and seemingly our language capabilities) evolved gradually as a result of being engaged in an active feedback loop with human self-domestication. Our proposal primarily builds on the management of aggression: it ties early stages of the evolution of languages with the taming of reactive aggression, whereas it ties late stages with the rise of proactive aggression. Overall, we posit a four-stage model, from simple (even single-word) utterances (Stage One), to simple two-slot grammars (Stage Two), to languages optimized for in-group communication (Stage Three), to languages better suited for communicating non-shared knowledge to strangers (Stage Four). Highlights: Self-domestication contributed to language sophistication and vice versa. An important linking element is the management of aggression. Four stages in the evolution of languages can be hypothesized. Early stages are linked to the taming of reactive aggression. Recent stages are tied to the rise of proactive aggression.