Stereotypical Responses
Often there is only a single or a few responses available for each signal.
Wilson gives the example of the sexual attractant of the female silkworm moth.
When 200 cells on the antennae of the male moth are stimulated, its motor system is initiated and it flies in the direction of the female.
Consider the behaviour of a dog when another begins baring its teeth and growling.
It can also bare its teeth and growl indicating a willingness to fight.
Or it can roll over on its back indicating surrender and submissiveness.
These responses do not always seem to be under voluntary control.
In general, there is a much greater variety of responses available to humans.
Human language does not generally invoke stereotypical responses.
As free agents, humans respond individually to one another.
The sole exception may be ritualized social interaction.
What usually happens when we answer the telephone?
Linguistic behaviour is under voluntary control.
Compare laughter and weeping which can be difficult to suppress.