Phase II:  Two-Way Communication Between Dolphins and Humans

What is it?  Phase II research involves the development of a two-way communication system between the dolphins and humans.  Through the use of state-of-the-art technology specifically designed for this application, Dr. Herzing has begun to build a mutually accessible channel of communication utilizing our understanding of the dolphins' own system of communication, including acoustic, postural, visual and tactile components.

Why conduct this work?  Dolphins represent a superior non-human animal for cognitive work due to their advance brains and sophisticated societies.  Discoveries in dolphin cognition will serve to further elevate the status of all animals on the planet, and help us define our relationship with them.  Knowing that dolphins have a complex communication system, it stands to reason that understanding it will involve many factors besides the sounds they make; including their environment, their behavior, their body posture, and their spatial and social associations.  This work holds the ability to "bridge the gap" and transcend the artificial boundaries between non-human animals and humans with the establishment of a mutually comprehensive communication system.