Dessalles J.L. Why We Talk: The Evolutionary Origins of Language

Oxford University Press, USA. 2007. – 395 p. — (Studies in the Evolution of Language).Constant exchange of information is integral to our societies. Jean-Louis Dessalles explores how this came into being. He develops a view of language as an instrument for conversation rather than mental representation and thought. Presenting language evolution as a natural history of conversation, the author sheds light on the emergence of communication in the hominine congregations, as well as on the human nature.