IS SYMBOLIC COMMUNICATION A BEHAVIOURAL FEATURE THAT DISTINGUISHES MODERN HUMANS (HOMO SAPIENS) FROM OTHER HOMININS? SYMBOLIC BEHAVIOUR IN THE PLEISTOCENE

Abstract

Symbolic communication infers the use of symbols as communicative media. In other words, symbols are used in order to communicate. In the interest of answering the primary question, this essay will look at what symbols are. Secondly, how they are used by their users and who they are. Afterwards, it will review the importance of communication and what causes the emergence of the capacity of symbolic communication. In conclusion, I will argue that not only other hominins, but also other social species are able to communicate symbolically. The methodology of this work is based on the evaluation and criticism of symbolic literature throughout the Pleistocene, which demonstrates a significant issue regarding commonplace perspective.