Primatologist Robin Dunbar posits that language may have evolved to replace __________ in large hominin societies.
A) conflict
B) sex
C) throwing
D) grooming

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Robin Dunbar's hypothesis suggests that language evolved as a replacement for grooming in large hominin societies. Grooming, or the physical act of touching and cleaning another individual's fur or skin, is a common behavior among primates that serves to build social bonds and reduce tension within the group. However, as hominin societies grew in size, grooming became a time-consuming practice that was difficult to maintain. Dunbar suggests that language evolved as a more efficient way to maintain social relationships and reduce tensions within larger groups. This allowed hominins to form more complex societies and ultimately contributed to their evolutionary success.

Primatologist Robin Dunbar Posits That Language May Have Evolved to Replace