Abstract
This paper provides a comparative exploration of the communication systems of humpback whales and humans, highlighting the implications of the complexity of humpback whale song for our understanding of the development of human language and music. Drawing on a range of research from fields including linguistics, musicology, and marine biology, the study identifies striking parallels between the structure, development, and cultural transmission of humpback whale songs and human language and music. Both systems are shown to exhibit hierarchical and rule-governed structures, to change and evolve over time, and to rely on social learning for the transmission of new variations. The paper suggests that these similarities might reflect shared underlying principles, such as cognitive and ecological influences, that guide the evolution of complex communication systems, thereby offering potentially integrative perspectives on human language and music. Additionally, the paper explores potential applications of these insights, such as refining current linguistic theories or inspiring innovative approaches to music creation. Overall, this study underscores the value of a cross-species perspective on communication, demonstrating the deep interconnections that span the boundaries of species and enrich our understanding of language, music, and culture.
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Communications and Linguistic Studies
KEYWORDS
HUMAN AND ANIMAL COMMUNICATION, MUSIC, LANGUAGE, COMPARATIVE STUDIES, HUMPBACK WHALES
