Some researchers have tried to teach apes to use language. Because of the
structure of their vocal organs, apes can’t say words, but they can communicate
using signs or computers. Using these means, apes can make requests,
respond to questions, and follow instructions.
The Case of Washoe the Chimpanzee
Researchers at Central Washington University taught a chimpanzee named
Washoe to use American Sign Language (ASL) to communicate. She could sign not
only single words but also meaningful combinations of words. She could follow
instructions and respond to questions given in ASL. Later, Washoe’s foster
child, Loulis, learned signs just by watching Washoe and other chimps that had
been trained to use language. Some research even suggested that language-trained
chimps may use signs spontaneously to communicate with each other or to talk to
themselves, although this behavior is not thoroughly documented.
Skepticism about Ape Language
Critics of the idea that apes can learn and use language have maintained
several arguments:
- Apes, unlike people, can be trained to learn only a limited number of
words and only with difficulty.
- Apes use signs or computers to get a reward, in the same way that
other animals can be taught tricks. But learning tricks is not equivalent to
learning language.
- Apes don’t use syntax. For example, they don’t recognize the
difference between Me eat apple and Apple eat
me.
- Trainers may be reading meanings into signs apes make and
unintentionally providing cues that help them to respond correctly to
questions.
Clearly, communication in nonhuman animals differs drastically from
language in humans. The spontaneity, uniqueness, and reflective content of human
language remains unmatched.
