Neural substrates for string-context mutual segmentation: A path to human language

Abstract

Linguistic structures are products of biological prerequisites and historical processes. Here we consider a number of neural, behavioral, and learning mechanisms that serve necessary or facilitating roles in the initiation of historical processes. We hypothesize that if mutual segmentation of strings and contexts is promoted by particular biological adaptations and ecological pressures, this could initiate a subsequent historical process of linguistic elaboration. To enable this mutual segmentation, three biological sub-faculties are indispensable: vocal learning, string segmentation, and contextual segmentation. Vocal learning enabled intentional control of vocal output via the direct connection between face motor cortex and medullary vocal nuclei. © 2007 Springer-Verlag London.