Here's why:
* Natural Environment: Unlike other ape language studies that focused on formal training and rewards, Kanzi grew up in a human-like environment. He was exposed to language constantly, from his mother's interactions to daily activities and conversations within the research group.
* Meaningful Communication: He wasn't just learning symbols; he was learning to use them to communicate his needs, wants, and even his emotions. This emphasis on real-world communication fostered a deeper understanding of language and its purpose.
* Early Exposure: Kanzi's exposure to language started from a very young age. He was raised in a family unit with extensive language interactions, which played a critical role in his language acquisition.
While Kanzi's language abilities were remarkable, it's important to note that he still differed significantly from humans in terms of linguistic complexity and abstract thought. However, his case strongly suggests that early exposure to language in a natural setting is crucial for language learning, even for non-human primates.