On languages in the tactile modality

Abstract While linguistic research on sign languages is getting larger and larger impact in the linguistic community, much less is known about languages in the tactile modality, namely the languages used by DeafBlind signers. These languages are originally adapted from their visual counterpart, although after that, they witness independent evolution. In this work, we present a detailed overview of the properties of tactile languages showing their degree of autonomy from visual sign languages and how these properties allow to re-assess some foundational aspects of human language, including the role of native users in driving linguistic change, and the impact of iconicity in transmitting meaning. The evidence discussed in the paper will give the tools to provide an informed answer to the question whether languages in the tactile-gestural modality should be considered as an autonomous externalization of human language.