| 
elcome
to Central Washington University's Chimpanzee and
Human Communication Institute. CHCI is a
sanctuary for a unique family of chimpanzees who have acquired
the signs of American Sign Language (ASL) and use those signs
in conversations with each other and their human companions.
The chimpanzees' accomplishments are a scientific first and
have resulted in a better understanding of ourselves, as well
as our
place and role in nature. This was achieved by accepting the
chimpanzees on their terms, as much as possible, and thus giving special consideration
to the chimpanzees' needs.
We have
found that good empirical research can and must
be humane in the treatment of the chimpanzees. This entails developing ways
to improve the living conditions for captive chimpanzees that
meet both their physical and psychological needs.
|
