>> Tattersall:
>> "The model proved deficient in thre of the most basic sounds associated with
>> articulate speech." [Id.]
As other scientists pointed out, it may indeed be the model that is
deficient, and not the Neandertal voicebox. Other scientists claimed
that if Crelin and Lieberman's model was correct, Neandertals would not
have been able to breathe or eat either ("The Neandertals", Trinkaus and
Shipman), a fact which would neatly account for their extinction.
>> In short, despite numerous assertions to the contrary, there is evidence of
>> lack of speech capacity. It cannot be conveniently ignored, while extolling
>> very iffy Broca speculations.
But Jim, you conveniently ignore the evidence, both neurological and the
flexion at the base of the skull of H.erectus, that H.e could speak,
while extolling equally iffy voicebox reconstructions. And I have
usually tried to point out that my evidence was only indicative, not
definitive, whereas I have never seen you even hint at the fact that the
evidence you cite is not only not definitive, but downright
controversial (and quite likely wrong).
-- Jim Foley Symbios Logic, Fort Collins, COJim.Foley@symbios.com (303) 223-5100 x9765 I've got a plan so cunning you could put a tail on it and call it a weasel. -- Edmund Blackadder