Neanderthal Language: Demystifying the Linguistic Powers of our Extinct Cousins

by Rudolf P. Botha

Did Neanderthals have language, and if so, what was it like? Scientists agree overall that the behaviour and cognition of Neanderthals resemble that of early modern humans in important ways. However, the existence and nature of Neanderthal language remains a controversial topic. The first in-depth treatment of this intriguing subject, this book comes to the unique conclusion that, collective hunting is a better window on Neanderthal language than other behaviours. It argues that Neanderthal hunters employed linguistic signs akin to those of modern language, but lacked complex grammar. Rudolf Botha unpacks and appraises important inferences drawn by researchers working in relevant branches of archaeology and other prehistorical fields, and uses a large range of multidisciplinary literature to bolster his arguments. An important contribution to this lively field, this book will become a landmark book for students and scholars alike, in essence, illuminating Neanderthals' linguistic powers.

ebook

Published June 30, 2020

About the author

Rudolf Philip Botha

Reviews

[The Inquisitive Biologist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Both a review of the claims in favour, and a hard-nosed look at how to evaluate such claims, Neanderthal Language offers a conceptual framework for what is needed to convincingly argue our extinct cousins had language. See my full review at https://inquisitivebiologist.com/2020...

[Petar Gabrić]

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/... Botha’s evaluation of the “symbolic” hypotheses about Neanderthal language is of great value. On the other hand, Botha’s account of the relationship between Neanderthal stone tools and language may be somewhat problematic, while his conclusions lack substance.

[Petar Gabrić]

https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/... Botha’s evaluation of the “symbolic” hypotheses about Neanderthal language is of great value. On the other hand, Botha’s account of the relationship between Neanderthal stone tools and language may be somewhat problematic, while his conclusions lack substance.