About this Item
A SUPERB AND INNOVATIVE INSIGHT TO THE EVOLUTION OF LANGUAGE. THIS BOOK HAS BEEN CALLED AN OUTSTANDING PRODUCT OF A GIFTED SCHOLAR. this book is NOT EX-LIBRARY. Seller Inventory # 002770
Bibliographic Details
Title: The Symbolic Species: The Co-Evolution of ...
Publisher: W W Norton & Co Inc
Publication Date: 1997
Binding: Hardcover
Condition: Near Fine
Dust Jacket Condition: Good
About this title
What separates humans from animals, Deacon writes, is our capacity for symbolic representation. Animals can easily learn to link a sound with an object or an effect with a cause. But symbolic thinking assumes the ability to associate things that might only rarely have a physical correlation; think of the word "unicorn," for instance, or the idea of the future. Language is only the outward expression of this symbolic ability, which lays the foundation for everything from human laughter to our compulsive search for meaning.
The final section of The Symbolic Species posits that human brains and human language have coevolved over millions of years, leading Deacon to the remarkable conclusion that many modern human traits were actually caused by ideas. Deacon's background in biological anthropology and neuroscience makes him a reliable companion through this complicated multidisciplinary turf. Rigorously researched and argued in dense but lively prose, The Symbolic Species is that rare animal, a book of serious science that's accessible to layman and scientist alike.
"About this title" may belong to another edition of this title.
Store Description
TBA
We aim to deliver your book as quickly as possible after you have placed the order. Our shipping rates are determined upon the size and wight of the book and your location within Australia or overseas.
Payment Methods
accepted by seller
Direct Debit (Personally Authorized Payment) PayPal Bank/Wire Transfer