Language of the Cavemen

Abstract

Human language is unique among all forms of animal communication. It is unlikely that any other species, including our close genetic cousins the baboons or apes, ever had language. Scientists suggest that language evolution may have started with our early ancestors, the cavemen. Either from a few grunting noises or actual speech. This paper will present evidence that the cavemen were the “stepping stone” of today’s civilized language.

Introduction

Humans today come across a famous question that crosses many people’s minds: ‘Where did language come from’? Many theories stated that the cavemen revolutionized language and were the first to discover it. There is also evidence that our early ancestors could speak and founded many words we use today on a daily basis. The language humans use is unique with none like it. Even primates cannot communicate the way humans can. Thanks to cavemen languages are how they are today.

Difference Between Primates and Cavemen

Language is commonly described as a communication tool which allows humans to express their feelings, thoughts and helps them to understand the world. It defines the cultural background of a particular society and separates human beings from other animals. Therefore, human language is believed to be a distinguishing factor, which makes the human species unique. Animal communication lacks creativity, flexibility and is not as complex as human communication. Our early ancestors, the cavemen used language to develop themselves and the way they lived.

Cavemen Can Speak

Scientists who have been trailing through the DNA found in Neanderthal bones have discovered that the now extinct species had a “language gene” that is only found in modern humans. In addition, they also had vocal tract which scientists have proven from reviewing fossils. “Their debatable findings create the tantalizing possibility that Neanderthals were capable of speech just like humans communicate with each other through their own language.” (Gray) “An analysis of a Neanderthal's fossilized hyoid bone - a horseshoe-shaped structure in the neck - suggests the species had the ability to speak.” (Hogenboom) The hyoid bone is crucial for speaking because it supports the root of the tongue. In non-human primates, it is not placed in the right position to communicate as humans can. Recently, an international team of researchers analyzed a fossil Neanderthal throat bone using 3D x-ray that allowed the group to see how the hyoid behaved in