Koko the sign language gorilla has died at 46

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the life and legacy of Koko, a gorilla known for her ability to communicate using sign language. Participants share personal reflections, memories, and links to documentaries about Koko's life and the work of her caregivers.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Meta-discussion

Main Points Raised

  • One participant highlights Koko's remarkable life story and her early training in sign language by Francine Patterson.
  • Another participant shares a personal anecdote about their initial skepticism regarding Koko's understanding, which changed after witnessing her use sign language in context.
  • A participant recommends a documentary available on Netflix, suggesting it provides a good overview of Koko's life.
  • A final post expresses a sentiment of farewell to Koko, acknowledging her impact.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express admiration for Koko and her legacy, but there is no formal consensus on the extent of her understanding or the implications of her abilities.

Contextual Notes

Some statements reflect personal experiences and opinions about Koko's communication skills, which may vary among participants.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in animal communication, sign language, or the life stories of notable animals may find this discussion engaging.

Greg Bernhardt
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What an amazing life and story!
http://www.newsweek.com/koko-gorilla-sign-language-death-988302

Koko was born at San Francisco Zoo on July 4 1971 and was named “Hanabiko,” Japanese for “fireworks child.” Animal psychologist Francine “Penny” Patterson began teaching Koko to sign while she was a graduate student in 1972. Patterson and others eventually taught Koko to use and understand hundreds of English words. Patterson started The Gorilla Foundation in 1986 with biologist Ronald Cohn and the late Barbara F Hiller, after moving Koko to Stanford in 1974.
 
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Science news on Phys.org
I still remember watching a documentary many years ago about her. At first I was skeptical about her abilities and understanding level, but then in one part they showed her running across the compound headed for the bathroom area, and she was shaking her hands as she ran. Turns out it was the sign for "hurry, hurry!" LOL :smile:

http://www.lifeprint.com/asl101/gifs-animated/hurry.gif

hurry.gif
 

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This was a pretty good documentary if you have netflix
https://www.netflix.com/title/80172471
 
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