How far is our ability to speak? New analysis of genomic data suggests that the human language’s ability existed at least 135,000 years ago, and this timeline brings its origins in the depths Homo sapiens. This discovery was published in Field of Psychologyprovides a new perspective on a question that has long attracted scientists: When did humans begin to communicate in the way we know today?
The study, led by MIT emeritus professor Shigeru Miyagawa, examines 15 genetic studies published in the past 18 years. These studies include analysis of Y chromosome, mitochondrial DNA and genome-wide data, and together point to key keys in human history: the initial regional branch of human beings about 13.5,000 years ago. The researchers believe that this branch indicates the existence of language ability.
“The logic is very simple,” Miyagawa said. “Every population of the global branch has a human language, and all languages are relevant,” he added, based on the genomic data. “I think we can say with fair certainty that the first division occurred about 135,000 years ago, so the ability of human language had to appear at that time or before.”
The researchers believe that if all human languages have common origins, the timing of early population geographical differences provides clues to the emergence of languages. By analyzing genetic variations between different regional subpopulations, they were able to estimate Homo sapiens Still an unseparated population in the region.
This meta-analysis becomes possible due to the increased availability of genomic studies. “In terms of quantity, we have more research and quality, which is a narrow window [of time]Miyagawa explained that it emphasized the evidence from various research work. Homo sapiens Appearing about 230,000 years ago, a group of people began to separate geographically, causing genetic mutations to pass over time.
The author also considered archaeological records. Around 100,000 years ago, symbolic activities had a wide range of appearances, such as meaningful markings on objects and the use of firepower to generate ochers. “Actions compatible with language, and consistency of symbolic thinking can only be detected in archaeological records H. SapiensThey believe that this symbolic activity may be triggered by the development of language.
Ian Tattersall, co-author and curator of the Human Origins of the American Museum of Natural History, has long believed that language is “the ignition of symbolic thinking and other organized activities.” Miyagawa details: “Language is the trigger for modern human behavior. [due to language] And encourage the innovations of the types we saw 100,000 years ago. ”
However, researchers acknowledge that not all scholars agree with this explanation. Some people proposed a more gradual development of new activities around 100,000 years ago, and language played a role, but not necessarily a central force. “Our approach is based on the latest genetic understanding of early Homo sapiens, based on experience,” Miyagawa said. “I think we are doing a good study and I hope this will encourage people to look at human language and evolution more.”
The study also delves into the difference between language as a cognitive system and a communication system. “Language is both a cognitive system and a communication system,” Miyagawa said. “My guess is that before 13.5,000 years ago, it was indeed a private cognitive system, but it became a communication system relatively quickly.”
The paper, “Language competence exists in the homosexual population 13.5 millennia ago”, provides new perspectives on the ancient question of the origin of human language. Through claims based on genomic data, researchers provide a timeline that links language development with broader evolution Homo sapiens. While the exact moment of language may remain a mystery, this study brings us one step closer to this fundamental aspect of our humanity.
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