The Evolution of Sign Languages: From Ancient Societies to Modern Times
It is widely acknowledged that the emergence of natural languages is a complex and sometimes elusive process, made even more challenging by the lack of written records from early human societies. However, the development of sign languages provides valuable insights into the ways in which communication evolved in our earliest human communities. This article explores the timeline and evidence of the emergence of sign languages, delving into the relationship between sign and spoken languages, and the ongoing evolution of sign languages in deaf communities.
Convention and Symbolism: The Building Blocks of Communication
Convention and symbolism are fundamental to communication, allowing humans to organize their thoughts and interact effectively within social groups. Convention refers to agreements on meanings, such as calling a particular object 'yummy,' while symbolism involves assigning meaning to something concrete, like a pretty stone that stands for an unseen force. These concepts are central to the creation and maintenance of sign languages.
The Emergence of Sign Languages
The question of whether sign languages emerged before or after spoken languages remains a subject of debate. Most linguists argue that sign languages likely originated from oral languages and conventional gestures used by hearing individuals. Nevertheless, there are compelling arguments for the idea that sign languages were the first natural languages used by humans, particularly in scenarios where communication needed to occur from a distance or without making noise, such as when hunting or engaging with groups that spoke different languages.
Historical Evidence and Early Societies
Isolated deaf individuals often develop their own home sign systems, further supporting the theory that sign languages are a natural evolution of human communication. These home sign systems, while they may start within family units, can develop into full-fledged sign languages in communities of deaf individuals. This intrinsic need for communication in deaf communities suggests that sign languages were present in early human societies, serving crucial roles in the development and survival of communities.
Genetic Origins and Prevalence in Early Societies
Deafness can have both genetic and environmental origins. While the genetic markers for deafness are still being studied, it is likely that these genetic markers have been present in human populations for a very long time. This implies that deaf individuals have always existed within human and pre-human societies, necessitating the development of sign languages or home sign systems for effective communication.
Conclusion: A Continual Process of Evolution
The evolution of sign languages is a continuous process, with each deaf individual potentially contributing to the development of unique sign languages. Historical and contemporary evidence suggests that sign languages have played a significant role in human communication since the earliest societies. This further emphasizes the importance of recognizing and supporting sign languages as a legitimate form of communication, fostering inclusivity and respect within diverse communities.