Evolution and Development of Language

One of the more important trends in the last decade of research into the evolution and development of language is the parcellation of language, or the linguistic phenotype, into tractable subdivisions. Association of a gene or genes with language through causative mutations should provide direct evidence for the role of specific signaling pathways in language. This chapter highlights that many factors and developmental processes need to come into play simultaneously. In particular, the substantial role of the environment on language acquisition and development need to always be considered. It is, however, interesting that the majority of known genes linked to language are also associated with FOXP2. While the chapter primarily focuses on what makes human language unique such as the genes and brain anatomy, studies of shared capabilities among vocal learners is an active area of focus for future studies.