6 Properties of Human Language: Are They Unique?

(i) Are these properties found in all forms of human communication via language? (ii) Are these special properties of human language or can they be found in the communication systems of other creatures? Please give adequate examples.

(i) No, these properties are not found in all forms of human communication via language. For example, sign languages do not involve 'vocal-auditory' channel use as they use manual gestures instead. Additionally, written language does not involve the vocal organs or auditory reception.

(ii) Some of these properties are special to human language, while others can be found in the communication systems of other creatures.

• 'Vocal-auditory' channel use: This property is specific to human language and some other primates, as they also use vocalizations for communication. However, other creatures like birds use vocalizations but not in the same way as human language.

• Specialization: This property is not unique to human language. Many animals have specialized communication systems. For example, honeybees communicate the location of food sources through the 'waggle dance', and vervet monkeys have different alarm calls for different predators.

• Non-directionality: This property is not exclusive to human language. Many animals use non-directional signals that can be picked up by anyone within range. For instance, some bird species use calls to signal the presence of predators to other members of their flock.

• Rapid fade: This property can be found in various forms of animal communication. For instance, fireflies use brief light signals to attract mates, and some species of frogs produce short-lived calls during the mating season.

• Reciprocity: This property is not unique to human language. Many animals engage in reciprocal communication. For example, dolphins communicate with each other by producing clicks and whistles that can be understood by other dolphins.

• Prevarication: This property is more commonly associated with human language. While animals can engage in deception or misleading behavior, it is typically not as sophisticated or intentional as human lying. Some primates, like chimpanzees, have been observed using deceptive tactics to manipulate others in social interactions.