It is often said that the defining attribute of humans is their language ability. But how much do we really know about animal communication? And how, indeed, can we define what language is?

To find out what is known scientifically about these questions, I contacted Sara Waller, Professor of Philosophy at Montana State University, who has studied this field for years. She graciously agreed to the interview you are about to hear. I learned how she became interested in animal language, how she funds and carries out her research activity, and what she has learned in working with a variety of animal species. Her perspective as a philosopher allows her to integrate the different disciplines involved in such work, including biology, mathematics, linguistics, and psychology.

Our first discussion took place September 2, 2016. Two weeks later, we met Sara again to talk more specifically about the studies of coyotes, wolves, dogs, and cats, and also about what’s involved in actually carrying out the work. I asked how she justified funding for her projects, and what drove her personally to forge ahead.