Theoretical Speculations on the Evolutionary Origins of Hemispheric Specialization |
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| Authors: | William D Hopkins Claudio Cantalupo |
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| Institution: | Division of Psychobiology, Yerkes National Primate Research Center, Emory University,;Department of Psychology, Agnes Scott College, and;Department of Psychology, Clemson University |
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| Abstract: | ABSTRACT— Hemispheric specialization has long been considered a uniquely human trait associated with the evolution of language and handedness. Recent studies in a host of vertebrate species have reported evidence of population-level behavioral and brain asymmetries, challenging the claims for the uniqueness of hemispheric specialization to the human species. Here we summarize the findings in nonhuman species and discuss the adaptive significance and potential costs of lateralization of function. |
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