Dr. Erich Jarvis: The Neuroscience of Speech, Language & Music | Huberman Lab Podcast #87

My guest this episode is Dr. Erich Jarvis, PhD—Professor and the Head of the Laboratory of Neurogenetics of Language at Rockefeller University and Investigator with the Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI). Dr. Jarvis’ research spans the molecular and genetic mechanisms of vocal communication, comparative genomics of speech and language across species and the relationship between speech, language and movement. We discuss the unique ability of humans (and certain animal species) to learn and communicate using complex language, including verbal speech production and the ability to interpret both written and spoken language. We also discuss the connections between language, singing and dance and why song may have evolved before language. Dr. Jarvis also explains some of the underlying biological and genetic components of stutter/speech disorders, non-verbal communication, why it’s easiest to learn a language as a child and how individuals can learn multiple languages at any age. This episode ought to be of interest to everyone interested in the origins of human speech, language, music and culture and how newer technology, such as social media and texting, change our brains. #HubermanLab #Neuroscience Thank you to our sponsors AG1 (Athletic Greens): InsideTracker: ROKA: LMNT: Supplements from Momentous Social & Website Instagram: Twitter: Facebook: TikTok: @hubermanlab LinkedIn: Website: Newsletter: Dr. Erich Jarvis Dr. Erick Jarvis’ Lab: Rockefeller University: Google Scholar: Twitter: Instagram: LinkedIn: Other Resources: Earth Biogenome Project: GenomeArk: Timestamps 00:00:00 Dr. Erich Jarvis & Vocal Communication 00:03:43 Momentous Supplements 00:04:36 InsideTracker, ROKA, LMNT 00:08:01 Speech vs. Language, Is There a Difference? 00:10:55 Animal Communication, Hand Gestures & Language 00:15:25 Vocalization & Innate Language, Evolution of Modern Language 00:21:10 Humans & Songbirds, Critical Periods, Genetics, Speech Disorders 00:27:11 Innate Predisposition to Learn Language, Cultural Hybridization 00:31:34 Genes for Speech & Language 00:35:49 Learning New or Multiple Languages, Critical Periods, Phonemes 00:41:39 AG1 (Athletic Greens) 00:42:52 Semantic vs. Effective Communication, Emotion, Singing 00:47:32 Singing, Link Between Dancing & Vocal Learning 00:52:55 Motor Theory of Vocal Learning, Dance 00:55:03 Music & Dance, Emotional Bonding, Genetic Predispositions 01:04:11 Facial Expressions & Language, Innate Expressions 01:09:35 Reading & Writing 01:15:13 Writing by Hand vs. Typing, Thoughts & Writing 01:20:58 Stutter, Neurogenetics, Overcome Stutter, Conversations 01:26:58 Modern Language Evolution: Texting, Social Media & the Future 01:36:26 Movement: The Link to Cognitive Growth 01:40:21 Comparative Genomics, Earth Biogenome Project, Genome Ark, Conservation 01:48:24 Evolution of Skin & Fur Color 01:51:22 Dr. Erich Jarvis, Zero-Cost Support, YouTube Feedback, Spotify & Apple Reviews, Momentous Supplements, AG1 (Athletic Greens), Instagram, Twitter, Neural Network Newsletter, Huberman Lab Clips The Huberman Lab Podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professionals for any such conditions. Title Card Photo Credit: Mike Blabac -