A new analysis of genetic studies suggests the cognitive capacity for language emerged at least 135,000 years ago, with language likely becoming a social tool around 100,000 years ago. Researchers examined genetic data from Y chromosome, mitochondrial DNA, and whole-genome studies to trace the divergence of human populations, reasoning that all languages share a common origin. The study proposes that language initially developed as an internal cognitive system before evolving into a means of social communication. Archaeological evidence of symbolic behavior around 100,000 years ago supports the idea that language played a key role in the development of modern human behavior.
New genetic research suggests that humans first developed language around 135,000 years ago, with its widespread social use around 100,000 years ago. This study, using data from 15 genetic studies, indicates that language likely began as a cognitive system before becoming crucial for social communication.
A new genomic study suggests that the capacity for human language emerged at least 135,000 years ago, coinciding with the initial geographic divergence of Homo sapiens. This capacity likely transitioned into social use around 100,000 years ago, as indicated by symbolic activities in the archaeological record.
