人类进化中的“缺失环节”和语言的起源

The Missing Links in Human Evolution and the Origin of Language

本文认为语言首先是作为一种人类的交际手段 ,而不是一种思维工具进化而来的。从这一点出发 ,就有可能对语言进化起源的图景做出合情合理的清晰描述。基于这一观点 ,本文讨论了与语言起源的进化源头探索有关的各种“缺失环节” ,并以多个学科最近的科学发现为基础 ,探讨了“原始人类的前语言交际行为和后语言交际行为”、“语言的结晶形成”、“象征符号的出现与认知能力”以及“神经科学与语言的起源”诸问题 ,提出了一些假设和推断。

Language evolved in the first place as a means of communication rather than of thinking. Drawing a reasonable and clear picture of the origin and evolution of language then becomes possible. This being so, I explore missing links in the origin and evolution of language. We also draw on recent scientific discoveries to examine topics such as “pre and post verbal communication among `primitive' peoples,” “language crystallization,” “development of symbols and cognitive capabilities,” and “neuroscience and the origin of language.”