Animal Intelligence

Abstract

MR. HARRISON, like most of those who deal with animal communications, assumes that sounds or words must form the basis. This rests upon the assumption that speech is a primary system of communication for mankind, instead of being secondary. Many babies will begin with sign communication, and show a preference for it after they are well able to articulate words. The dog will follow human gestures as well as sounds and words. It is indeed worthy of consideration how far signs play a part in communication between animals. Instead of supposing a complicated system of words, as Mr. Harrison does, it is easy to conceive that, with the apparatus he describes, many signs may be made. Expressions of alarm, joy, direction, can be as well made with antennæ as with hands.