The Origins of Grammar: An Anthropological Perspective

The grammar of human language sets it apart from communication systems in the animal world - Edwardes shows how and why and what this means.

"Martin Edwardes has written a knowledgeable and thoughtful book on the origins of grammar. I am happy to say that Edwardes' book complements my own book of the same title, taking a similar view on central issues such as the importance of meaning, of social interaction and a gradualist view of evolution. Valuably, Edwardes approaches the topic from an anthropological viewpoint, as his subtitle makes clear. Together, both books offer innovative and thorough coverage of the field. "
"Martin Edwardes has written a wonderfully clear book that sets out the central issues in linguistics that are pertinent to the evolution of grammar and brings them into contact with psychological and anthropological concerns. The style is accessible and will meet a broad audience but the thesis will set academics thinking, arguing and reaching for their pens."
... a very useful primer on many issues in evolutionary anthropology for readers with little previous knowledge of the subfields... it is a valuable work.