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Pros and cons of blurring gesture-language lines: An evolutionary linguistic perspective

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 April 2017

Matthew L. Hall
Matthew L. Hall*
Affiliation:
Department of Linguistics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269. matthall.research@gmail.com
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Abstract

The target article's emphasis on distinguishing sign from gesture may resolve one important objection to gesture-first theories of language evolution. However, this approach risks undervaluing the gradual progression from nonlanguage to language over hominin evolution, and in emerging sign systems today. I call for less emphasis on drawing boundaries and more emphasis on understanding the processes of change.

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Type
Open Peer Commentary
Information
Behavioral and Brain Sciences , Volume 40 , 2017 , e57
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Copyright © Cambridge University Press 2017 

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