Why Do We Talk? The Science of Speech 2009
Distributed by Films Media Group, PO Box 2053, Princeton, New Jersey 08543-2053; 800-257-5126
Produced by BBC
Directed by Damon Thomas
DVD, color, 53 min.
Sr. High - Adult
Health Sciences, Science, Research
Date Entered: 11/03/2010
Reviewed by Lori Widzinski, Health Sciences Library, University at Buffalo, State University of New YorkThis fascinating program, part of the BBC’s Horizon series, looks at the scientific experiments that are uncovering the amazing facts behind human speech. At the start of the film, the work of cognitive scientist Deb Roy and his ambitious Human Speechome Project is highlighted. Recognizing that he had a unique opportunity to study the origins of human speech, Roy set up video recorders in his home and recorded his newborn son 24/7—until the age of three. He gained unprecedented coverage of the earliest stages of human speech formation.
Exploring the relationship between anatomy and speech, Tecumseh Fitch discovered the positioning of the larynx in animals and proved that it’s not just anatomy involved in speech. Other groundbreaking work of scientists William Fifer, Ofer Tchernichovski, Faraneh Vargha-Khadem, and Simon Kirby are given equal treatment. A wonderful segment with Noam Chomsky rounds out this highly respectable set of experts.
How does speech begin? Is it nature or nurture? How is the brain involved? Is motor control involved? How do these traits interact in humans? Students in senior high through college studying speech will be taken with this production. It is a perfect way to introduce not only the latest research in these areas, but also how scientists work. The high BBC production standards guarantee a top notch video suitable for classroom viewing. Why Do We Talk? is highly recommended for library collections supporting science, health sciences, and linguistics.