Thomas Sebeok discusses modes of communication between animals and humans. He notes differences between verbal and nonverbal communication, citing humans as unique in their ability to communicate through both. He describes situations in which animals and humans communicate, the value of communication for imposing order on the outside world, and the origins and evolution of language as a means of communication for humans.
At the time of this interview, Sebeok, a Fellow at the National Humanities Center (1980-81), was professor of linguistics and semiotics at Indiana University.
This edition of Soundings was conducted by Wayne J. Pond.
