Human vs Non-human Primate Communication

What is the difference?

Language is thought to have gradually diverged from earlier primate communication systems when early hominins acquired the ability to form a theory of mind and shared intentionality. The main difference between human and non-human primate communication lies in the complexity and flexibility of human language. 

While non-human primates have sophisticated communication systems, they lack the ability to use language to convey abstract or symbolic concepts, and their communication is largely limited to a fixed set of signals that are used in response to specific stimuli. This development is sometimes thought to have coincided with an increase in brain volume, and many linguists see the structures of language as having evolved to serve specific communicative and social functions. 

Human language, on the other hand, is characterized by its complexity and flexibility. It allows us to express abstract and symbolic concepts, to communicate ideas and thoughts that are not directly related to our immediate environment, and to engage in complex forms of social interaction and cooperation. 

Additionally, human language is characterized by its productivity, which means that we can use a finite set of words and grammatical rules to produce an infinite variety of sentences and ideas. This allows us to communicate in a wide range of contexts and situations, and to adapt our language to new and changing circumstances. It is closely linked to our cognitive abilities, such as our capacity for abstract thinking, problem-solving, and planning. This allows us to use language not just to communicate, but also to think and reason about the world around us.