10.2.2 Properties of Human Communication Not Present in Animal Communication

• Humans can discuss abstract concepts like justice, love, and theoretical physics
• What is the definition of abstract thinking in the context of human communication?

  Communicating complex, non-physical concepts
• Unlike animal communication, symbolic language allows humans to express complex thoughts and abstract notions
• What is the relationship between abstract thinking and symbolic language in human communication?

  Symbolic language builds upon abstract thinking
• Complex grammar and syntax allow humans to construct structured sentences with precise meaning
• The ability to use complex grammar and syntax is unique to human communication.
• What is the role of recursion in human language?

  Embedding phrases within phrases
• Recursion allows phrases within phrases, adding layers of complexity
• Which feature of human communication does recursion build upon to enhance its ability to convey detailed and nuanced thoughts?

  Complex grammar and syntax
• Recursion is a feature found in animal communication.

  False
• What is an example of a complex, non-physical concept humans can discuss using abstract thinking?

  Justice
• Symbolic language builds upon the ability for abstract thinking
• Why is complex grammar and syntax essential for human communication?

  To express intricate thoughts
• Symbolic language builds upon the ability for abstract thinking.
• Complex grammar and syntax are unique to human language.
• The sentence "The cat that chased the mouse jumped over the fence" uses embedded clauses to provide detailed information.
• Match the feature with the type of communication:

  Grammar ↔️ Complex, structured in humans

  Syntax ↔️ Wide range of rules in humans

  Expressiveness ↔️ Detailed thoughts in humans
• What two concepts are essential for using complex grammar and syntax effectively?

  Abstract thinking and symbolic language
• Recursion in language allows embedding phrases within phrases to add layers of complexity.
• Recursion enables humans to convey detailed information that animals cannot.
• What is the primary difference in recursion between human and animal communication?

  Recursion is not present in animals
• Steps for understanding recursion in human language:

  1️⃣ Recognize embedding of phrases

  2️⃣ Understand the added layers of complexity

  3️⃣ Convey detailed information
• What three capabilities are necessary for cultural transmission in humans?

  Abstract thinking, symbolic language, complex grammar
• Future planning in humans involves proactive decision-making for upcoming events.
• Abstraction in future planning involves reasoning about hypothetical situations and long-term consequences.
• Match the aspect with the type of behavior:

  Time horizon ↔️ Long-term in humans

  Decision-making ↔️ Proactive in humans

  Complexity ↔️ High in humans

  Flexibility ↔️ Adaptable in humans
• What is the human ability to understand that others have their own thoughts and beliefs called?

  Theory of mind
• Theory of mind enables humans to recognize diverse perspectives and engage in complex social interactions.