Hunting and the development of sign language: a cross-cultural test

Journal of Anthropological Research • Vol/Iss. 33 • Published In 1977 • Pages: 185-201 •

By Divale, William Tulio, Zipin, Clifford

Abstract

The association between hunting and sign language is examined. It is hypothesized that sign language develops as a form of nonverbal communication to aid hunters in the coordinated stalking of game. Ethnographic evidence supports this hypothesis. A second hypothesis is also tested concerning the relationship between population size and non-verbal communication, however sampling procedures provided an inadequate test of this hypothesis.

Samples
Sample Used	Coded Data	Comment
HRAF Collection of Ethnography (paper/fiche)	Other Researchers	Microfiles Series 58-62
Ethnographic Atlas (EA)	Other Researchers

Hypotheses (2)
Hypothesis	Supported
Sign language will be found in societies more heavily dependent on hunting for basic subsistence (187).	Supported
Sign language will be found in smaller societies whose member are more likely to sustain frequent contacts with members of neighboring societies (188).	Partially supported

Documents and Hypotheses Filed By: Jessie Cohen Megan Farrer

Hunting and the development of sign language: a cross-cultural test

Journal of Anthropological Research • Vol/Iss. 33 • Published In 1977 • Pages: 185-201 • Cite

By Divale, William Tulio, Zipin, Clifford

Abstract

Samples

Hypotheses (2)

Journal of Anthropological Research • Vol/Iss. 33 • Published In 1977 • Pages: 185-201 •