Evolution doesn't explain language ability (Talk.Origins)

Response ArticleThis article (Evolution doesn't explain language ability (Talk.Origins)) is a response to a rebuttal of a creationist claim published by Talk.Origins Archive under the title Index to Creationist Claims.

Index

Claim CB402:

Evolution does not explain the evolution of language ability.

Source:

• Yahya, Harun, 2004. Errors concerning human intelligence on the BBC's Horizon programme.
• Watchtower Bible and Tract Society, 1985. Life--How Did It Get Here? Brooklyn, NY, pp. 174-175.

CreationWiki response:

Talk Origins’ response ignores several factors of language:

1. The meaning of words is arbitrary; words need to originate from one individual and then be taught to a group before they can be useful.
2. Language has syntax and grammatical structures that differ from language to language.
3. Information theory and experience show that random changes in language will hamper communication. For example, slang is often unintelligible outside the group that uses it.