Nonverbal Steps to the Origins of Language

Nonverbal Steps to the Origins of Language examines the origin and development of human language through the seemingly paradoxical lens of nonverbal communication. Taking an evolutionary stance, it identifies and explores 15 sequential nonverbal steps that cumulatively enabled modern linguistic communication in Homo sapiens.

Each step examines how human communication has evolved over time, detailing the changes that occurred at each developmental stage and their corresponding roles in gestured and spoken language. While following an evolutionary timeline, this book contextualizes these developments within modern discourse on topics such as linguistics, physiology, and brain development. The authors introduce the innovative “Language Superimposition Theory” (LST), proposing that human language—in both its vocal and gestural forms—was superimposed upon an older, preexisting nonverbal medium. This theoretical framework challenges conventional understanding of language origins by elevating nonverbal communication from its traditionally neglected status.

Exploring diverse topics including chemical messaging, audio-visual messaging, emotional signaling, binocular vision, facial expressions, pointing behaviors, object manipulation, ancient tool-making, and food sharing, this fascinating intellectual journey is a must-read for students of nonverbal communication from psychology, linguistics, and anthropology backgrounds.