Starting from Scratch: The Origin and Development of Expression, Representation and Symbolism in Human and Non-Human Primates

This book compares the beginning of symbolic thought in human infancy with that of our close primate relatives, the chimpanzees. Drawing upon his years of detailed observations, Matthews offers an in-depth analysis and interpretation of chimp behaviour to present an unprecedented account of the beginnings of symbolic thought. The implications for our understanding of symbolism, language, art and education are enormous, as are those about our origins and our place within nature.