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In the search for the functional homology of human imitation: Take play seriously!

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 October 1998

Ádám Miklósi
Affiliation:
Department of Ethology, Eötvös University, Göd, H-2131 Hungarymiklosa@ludens.elte.hu

Abstract

I will argue that we cannot understand imitation unless we know more about its function. By comparing the two examples presented by Byrne & Russon I show how the imitative behaviour of orangutans can be interpreted as a homologue of human imitation during play. In contrast, the lack of data leave the role of imitation in gorillas doubtful.

Type
Open Peer Commentary
Copyright
© 1998 Cambridge University Press

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