Question

You have taught your pet parrot to speak perfect English and understand several commands. Have you taught it language? Explain.

Short answer

Whilst the parrot can mimic sounds and understand commands, it may not have a deeper context-based understanding involved in language use, and hence, it may not be accurate to assert that the parrot has fully learned the language.

Step-by-step solution

Define Language

In this step, the definition of language is essential. Language is more than just a means of communication. It involves understanding complex grammatical rules, context, metaphors, humour and even cultural references.

Assess Parrot’s Understanding

Consider the abilities of the parrot. Does it understand the meaning of the words it has been taught? Does it only know how to respond to commands, or can it use words in new, creative ways to convey different messages?

Compare Command Understanding and Language Understanding

While the parrot may be replicating the sounds perfectly and responding to commands, compare this behaviour with the complexity of human language understanding.

Conclusion

After considering the evidence, draw a conclusion about whether or not the parrot has truly learned language.

Key concepts

Understanding Language Definition

When we talk about language, we're referring to a sophisticated system of communication that is unique to humans. Language is an intricate tapestry woven with words, grammar, syntax, and semantics, allowing individuals to convey not only concrete ideas but also abstract concepts, emotions, and intricate thought processes. Unlike simple forms of communication, language enables us to tell stories, dream up hypothetical situations, and explore the past and the future. It goes beyond mere memorization; understanding language requires grasping rules and using them to express and comprehend an infinite variety of messages.

Grasping the complexity of language involves recognizing ambiguity, irony, and metaphors, elements that are absent in basic animal communication. As we consider if animals can 'speak' a language, it's essential to differentiate between the physical ability to produce human-like sounds and the cognitive ability to understand and create nuanced, contextualized communication.

Communication in Animals

Communication among animals can be fascinating and complex, but it doesn't equate to human language. Animals communicate for a variety of reasons: to signal danger, find a mate, establish territory, or identify themselves. This communication takes on many forms: vocalizations, body language, chemical signals, and even bioluminescence.

While some species, like dolphins and certain primates, may have more complex systems of communication that involve a higher number of signals and contextual use, these systems still lack the generative and abstract qualities inherent to human language. Instead, animal communication is often instinctual or learned responses to specific stimuli. For example, a bee's dance might indicate the location of food, but it cannot tell a story about yesterday's foraging adventures.

Language vs. Mimicry

Our pet parrot's ability to 'speak' English and follow commands is a remarkable display of mimicry rather than language acquisition. Mimicry involves imitating sounds or behaviors without necessarily understanding their meaning or significance. Parrots are skilled mimics; they can reproduce a wide range of sounds, including human speech, due to their vocal anatomy and cognitive abilities.

However, true language acquisition involves comprehending the associated meanings and being able to manipulate linguistic elements creatively and contextually. If our parrot uses phrases only in the specific contexts it has been trained for, or if it cannot ask questions, make novel statements, or grasp humor, it is not using true language. True language involves flexibility and intention, the ability to ask new questions, express new ideas, or jest, features that remain unique to the complex human capacity for language.