Comparative communication and cognition Flashcards

1
Q

State the 2 components of human language

A

Semantics and combinatorality

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2
Q

Describe homologous and conversion approach to evolution

A

Phylogenetic tree to make out genetic relations between primates/species. Looking for precursors for linguistic abilities. Allows us to construct capabilities of older/extinct species

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3
Q

Define semantics

A

Mapping of meaning onto signals (words). Complex ability, initial work focused on primates. No evidence mammals reference specifically to certain features of objects

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4
Q

What are call vocalisations known as?

A

Functionally referential communication

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5
Q

What evidence suggests calls have meaning?

A

When calls are played back in absence of predators, mammals should act in same way

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6
Q

Describe meerkats

A

Rely on vocal and auditory stimulus, produce 2 types of vocalisations to 2 different predator types. Additional alarm call to suggest object is moving.

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7
Q

Results from the experiment looking at movement of dogs and bird calls were…

A

When dog is moving, produced moving call a lot more than when dog was stationary.

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8
Q

Explain what makes up a flight call

A

2 element/syllables produced when flying/moving

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9
Q

What is a prompt call?

A

3 element vocalisations. Produced when adults associate with the nest

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10
Q

Define compositionality

A

Meaning derived from compounds/combination of information

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11
Q

Describe the chestnut-crowned babbler

A

Passerine, 16 distinct calls. Composed of smaller sounds, cooperative breeders. <23 individuals, highly terrestrial, cohesive foraging

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12
Q

State the 4 playbacks

A

Alert call, recruitment call, mobbing sequence and chuck recruitment sequence

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13
Q

Define syntax

A

Larger semantic structures whose meaning is derived from independent meaning of the individual elements. Assembly of meaningful signals into higher order structures with meaning

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14
Q

Describe the Southempied babbler

A

Passerine, 17 distinct vocalisations. Cooperative breeder, <16 individuals. Highly terrestrial, cohesively foraging, highly territorial

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15
Q

State the comparative evidence for phonology

A

Assembly of small, meaningless vocal units into larger ones. Animals also capable of stringing together vocalisations into complex songs

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16
Q

Name the 2 ways we can combine sounds

A

Phonology and syntax

17
Q

Define phonology

A

Recombination of meaningless elements (phonemes) into meaningful signals (words)

18
Q

Define combinatorality

A

Meaning of whole is not related to meaning of individual words/sounds