The evolution of rhythm from neurons to ecology
Abstract
Why are animal rhythms important? Cross-species work can help isolate what is unique in the human capacity for rhythm. In addition, cross-species work can provide inference on the origins and evolution of human rhythmic capacities. Neural tissue and cognitive capacities do not fossilize: by pinpointing shared biological mechanisms between humans and other animals, cross-species research can help reconstruct the evolution of rhythmic capacities in humans. This symposium will unify multiple comparative approaches to the evolution of musical rhythm. Specifically, we aim at (1) providing a platform for multiple fields to compare theoretical frameworks and methodologies across species, (2) integrating findings from behaviour, neuroscience, modelling, and cognition, (3) actively spurring cross-fertilization between musical rhythm and animal timing research, (4) drawing inferences on the evolution of human rhythm.