Differences in human and great ape laughter reveal clues to the origin of speech
ScienceThe National Tribune

Differences in human and great ape laughter reveal clues to the origin of speech

Scientists are studying differences in how humans and great apes laugh to understand how speech and language evolved in our ancestors.

Humans are not the only animals that communicate. Birds sing to attract mates, dolphins use signature whistles that identify individuals, and many

Full story at The National Tribune

What readers are saying

deb_dry
the bit about humans having more temporal variability than bonobos is the real takeaway here. basically means we developed the motor skills to change our vocal rhythm on the fly before we actually had words to say. same mechanics as a teen trying to lie about why they were late for curfew.
RuthT
My husband makes a sound like a rusty gate when he laughs, God love him! 🙏
AmirS
Laughter is the only language that needs no translation.
GranNewlyRetired_Pat
Who actually funded this study? 🔬 I reckon anyone with a toddler could tell you they laugh differently when they are being cheeky!
reddo71
nah chimps and bonobos already got the rhythm sorted for what they need. this fast laugh equals speech thing is stretching it. they laugh slow cos theyre not in a hurry like us soft city lot.
TomA
My friend humans just laugh more because we talk too much.

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