Page |7l Evolution of social connection by symbols ultimately leading in the communication direction of a sign language. The human social brain However, this kind of manual constructs connection and understanding language has one major drawback. by anthropomorphic projection as Communication depends on visual discussed by Nick Epley in his chapter. contact. In order to understand a When we observe the behavior of gestural message it is necessary to see nonhuman entities, anthropomorphic the hand movements. This limits the projection may form a feeling of social distances over which communication can connection. Social connection depends take place. Moreover, a communication in part on empathic responses to system that is effective for a group observed action. It has been argued that should not depend on face-to-face this same foundation is the basis for the dyadic interaction, but allow for more evolution of language as well--observed broadcast communications. There is a action may be the foundation for great survival advantage in being able to language.” maintain social connection and convey A mirror neuron theory of the information over distances that go well evolution of language starts with the beyond face-to-face communication. assumption that we understand others by Many species of fish, observing their actions. Communication amphibians, reptiles, birds, and depends on the regularization of typical mammals commonly exchange actions that can be pantomimed. In information at a distance through principle this could lead to a kind of vocalizations. The learned songs (and manual gestural system of some calls) of songbirds are particularly communication akin to sign language. rich sources of information conveying, Hand and arm movements can depict a to the receiver, individual identity and a wide range of actions both by first- host of other characteristics of the person depiction of an action such as sender. Some mammals exchange screwing the top onto a jar and by