Neurony lustrzane i ewolucja języka [Przeł. M. Mrozik]
Mirror neurons and the evolution of language [Trans. M. Mrozik]

Summary/Abstract: The article presents arguments for the evolution of human vocal language from manual gestures, and explains the possible role of the mirror neuron system in this evolution. The article contains a discussion of such issues as the links between theories of embodied cognition and embodiment in language, the role of lateralization in the evolution of language, the mimetic sources of the semantic mechanisms of language, the role of the process of conventionalization observable in modern-day sign languages, the role of gestures in speech and language acquisition, the possible role of facial gestures in the transition from manual to vocal language. Drawing evidence from genetics and the fossil record, the author argues for a relatively late completion of the evolution of speech. He argues for a gradual development of speech and grammar. He discusses the links between mental time-travel and language, as well as the possible link between the birth of vocal language and the "human revolution".

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