Introduction to Kanzi and Dr. Sue Savage-Rumbaugh
Kanzi is the subject of study on the linguistic capabilities of an ape. Dr. Sue Savage Rumabugh, the lead researcher who studied Kanzi for almost his whole life, is fascinated by the fact that the ape possesses a particular aptitude for communicating with humans.
Kanzi’s Communication Abilities
In the video, Dr. Sue demonstrates how Kanzi can use a phone and even a keyboard. Although Kanzi reflects an understanding of human language, he cannot produce coherent words. He uses sign language, symbols, and images to communicate with Dr.Sue (Kanzi- An Ape of Genius).
Kanzi shows a high level of understanding of the complex rules of human language, even mastering how to play a video game at a competent level. The researchers found that Kanzi’s aptitude increased as he repeatedly undertook various daily tasks. Kanzi could produce some vocal sounds but could not speak comprehensively due to the structure of his vocal cords.
Technological Skills and Physical Abilities
Georgia State University to understand human evolution better. Kanzi and the other bonobos could misbehave and respond positively to discipline. Dr. Sue learned that Kanzi was much more aware of their behavior and understood the consequences of their actions.
They discovered that bonobos walked upright like Lucy, the most renowned of hominids, and showed an incredible ability to use tools. Bonobos in Guinea could use rocks to crack tough nuts to eat. Nonetheless, they were still behind the capabilities of humans. Kanzi quickly learned to use tools to break open a box to retrieve food. Researchers noted that humans in the Stone Age likely followed similar learning paths to survive in the world.
Implications for Understanding Human Evolution
The discovery revealed that bonobos would be the closest ancestors to humans and, therefore, could show the evolutionary path humans went through for millions of years. The study of Kanzi proved that the bonobos’ group structure and social behavior represented the society of humanity’s distant ancestors. The research indicated that with enough variables in the study and the right circumstances, we could learn a lot about human evolution from apes.
Reference
Kanzi – An Ape of Genius. [Video]. YouTube. Web.