Maël Leroux will be giving a talk titled Call combinations in chimpanzees?

Abstract:

A key feature of language argued to distinguish it from other animal communication systems is its syntactic structure: meaning-bearing units (e.g. words) are combined into larger structures (e.g. phrases) (Hurford, 2011). By searching for core features of language in the communication systems of our closest-living relatives, particularly the apes, it is possible to elucidate whether these are de novo-evolved traits in humans or whether they have their origins rooted in the primate lineage. Recently, a growing body of observational data validated by experimental procedures highlighted the presence of syntactic-like structures within the vocal communication system of monkeys. However, while observational studies describe call combinations in great apes, playback experiments confirming the syntactic-like nature of these combinations, central to reconstruct the phylogenetic progression of syntax, are currently lacking. Using a two level experimental procedure, we are currently investigating a promising candidate for syntactic-like structure in chimpanzees. First, predator presentations suggest chimpanzees combine calls (alarm-hoos + waa-barks) when encountering snakes, specifically when other individuals are present, potentially to recruit group members in a dangerous situation. Second, ongoing playback experiments aim to further investigate the meaning and function of this call combination and test whether chimpanzees process it as a syntactic-like structure. Preliminary analyses of playback responses suggest the alarm-hoo-waa-bark combination is meaningful to receivers with its meaning being derived from the meaning of the comprising calls. Ultimately, this work will help clarify whether one of the core building-blocks of language, syntax, also exists in the communication systems of our closest relative and therefore is evolutionarily more ancient.

Organised by: Marta Wesierska

Email for teams link: marta.wesierska@warwick.ac.uk

Warwick Institute of Engagement have a Learning Circle dedicated to supporting the promotions process with specific reference to impact, outreach and engagement.

This workshop is designed to inform and support those applying for promotion (or thinking of applying) to Senior Teaching/Research Fellow or Associate Professor. There will be presentations from staff recently promoted, some advice on framing applications and plenty of time for questions and answers.

Advance HE: There are still limited places available for the cross-sector online discussions on the longer-term impacts of COVID19 on female academics.

These discussions follow on from the publication of the graphic novella Five ‘Survive; Lockdown, which tracks the lives of five fictional female academics at a fictional UK university. They’ll address key issues inspired by the novella’s subject matter and individual characters’ stories.

Wednesday 3 November 1530-1700

Five ‘Survive’ Lockdown: Continuing the Conversation: CARE

Please register here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/five-survive-lockdown-continuing-the-conversation-on-care-tickets-182783298767