Do you agree with idea that "speech is special" in the sense that speech perception is fundamentally different from ordinary auditory perception? Explain. If you are not sure what this means, just search "speech is special." Hints and discussion: This open-ended question encourages you to think about the general problem of understanding human language. It also encourages critical analysis of what "special" could indicate, and whether human language seems to be valued above other species' communication (and why it should). Think about bat and dolphin sonar (for example, how humans affect communication between dolphins by leaving debris in the ocean) or other issues of animal communication (such as mentioned with cats).

The text notes important similarities and differences between music and language, and you can consider cultural differences in music as comparing it to language (not just culture) - and if it is similar to language. Or maybe how musicians treat music (if you say it is the same, then language is not specials, then speech may not special). Do you think that such cultural differences might be explained in terms of linguistic differences? Do cultures/nations with similar languages produce similar musical styles? You can ponder the linguistic, cultural and musical differences between East and West and are encouraged to research their own cultural heritage and the role of music. Use a variety of resources (just reference appropriately). You can also think about this in terms of the brain (neuroscience).

300 - 400 words for this assignment.