How Different Are We From Apes?

Scientists agree that one of the main differences between humans and apes is the ability of the former to speak.

09:59 04 June 2015

For centuries scientists have been fascinated with apes particularly their many similarities with human beings. Various studies have been conducted attempting to understand the lines that draw us apart from our closest relative in the planet. 

 

Primatologist Charlotte Uhlenbroek, who has spent years observing apes in their natural environment, said: "When you look into the eyes of an ape you see an intelligent, self-aware animal looking back at you and appraising you. "I often wonder, what do they make of us when they look at us?"

 

Of all the things, it was the apes’ language that proved to be the most intriguing. R L Garner observed: "The sounds uttered by these apes have all the characteristics of true speech. The speaker is conscious of the meaning of the sound used, and uses it with the definite purpose of conveying an idea to the one addressed; the sound is always addressed to some definite one, and the speaker usually looks at the one addressed; he regulates the pitch and volume of the voice to suit the condition under which it is used; he knows the value of sound as a medium of thought. These and many other facts show that they are truly speech." 

 

Various studies have helped human beings understand our relationship with apes; our views have transformed, allowing us to consider the animals not just beasts of the jungle but creatures that are communicative and intelligent.